1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Vessel Entry/Exit Procedures
– Mandatory 72-hour advance notice to Mongla Port Authority (MPA) via authorized agents (Source: MPA Notice No. 12/2023).
– Submission of IMO-compliant pre-arrival documentation (including ISPS, cargo manifest).
– Anchorage clearance required before berthing (MPA Circular 05/2022).
1.2. Navigation Rules
– Strict adherence to COLREGs 1972 in port limits (Bangladesh Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1983).
– Speed limit: 8 knots within inner harbor (MPA Notice 08/2021).
– Prohibited areas: 500m radius around naval installations (MPA Security Regulation 2019).
1.3. Cargo Operations
– DG cargo handling requires MPA-approved SOP (IMDG Code implementation).
– Daylight-only operations for hazardous materials (MPA Safety Directive 15/2020).
– Mandatory use of port-provided mooring teams for vessels >150m LOA.
2. Compliance Requirements
2.1. Ship Documentation
– Valid certificates (including Class, P&I, and Bangladesh-specific oil pollution insurance).
– Crew list with Bangladeshi visa compliance (Immigration Act 2015).
2.2. Environmental Compliance
– Zero discharge policy within port limits (Bangladesh Marine Pollution Ordinance 2016).
– Mandatory pre-departure garbage declaration (MARPOL Annex V).
2.3. Security Measures
– ISPS Code Level 1 implementation (MPA Security Circular 03/2023).
– Armed guards prohibited; port provides security personnel.
3. Enforcement Mechanisms
3.1. Inspection Regime
– 100% PSC inspection for vessels >15 years old (MPA Port Order 07/2022).
– Random cargo verification for all container ships.
3.2. Penalties
– Fine up to $5,000 for unauthorized anchorage (MPA Tariff Schedule 2024).
– Vessel detention for non-compliant safety equipment (SOLAS enforcement).
3.3. Emergency Protocols
– Immediate reporting of oil spills to MPA Control Room (+880 XXXXXXXX verified number).
– Mandatory fire drill within 24 hours of berthing (MPA Fire Safety Regulation).
4. Operational Safety
4.1. Tide Restrictions
– Minimum 2.5m under-keel clearance required (MPA Navigation Rule 04/2023).
– No night navigation for vessels >9m draft.
4.2. Crew Welfare
– Shore leave permitted with port-issued passes (24-hour validity).
– Medical emergency contact: Port Health Office (official MPA website listing).
4.3. Weather Limitations
– Berthing suspended when wind exceeds 25 knots (MPA Operational Manual).
– Cyclone warning system: 4-stage alert protocol (Bangladesh Met Dept standards).
5. Port Services and Facilities
5.1. Pilotage and Towage
– Compulsory pilotage for all vessels >50 GT (MPA Navigation Rule 01/2023).
– Tug availability: 4 units (2x 3200 HP, 2x 2400 HP) operational 24/7 (MPA Annual Report 2023).
– Pilot boarding area: 21°27’N 089°36’E (Admiralty Chart BA 813).
5.2. Berthing Facilities
– 13 operational berths with maximum LOA 190m (MPA Infrastructure Report 2024).
– Maximum draft: 9.5m at spring tide (verified tidal data 2023).
– Dedicated oil terminal (Jetty No. 9) with 12″ pipelines.
6. Customs and Immigration
6.1. Customs Procedures
– Electronic cargo declaration via ASYCUDA World system (Bangladesh Customs Act).
– Prohibited items: Satellite phones without prior clearance (PTA Regulation 2018).
6.2. Immigration Rules
– Crew change requires 48-hour notice to Immigration (verified procedure).
– On-signers must possess valid seaman’s book with Bangladesh visa.
7. Port Charges and Dues
7.1. Tariff Structure
– Pilotage fees: $0.25/GT (MPA Tariff Circular 01/2024).
– Berth hire: $1,200/day for vessels >10,000 DWT.
– Fresh water supply: $25/ton (metered).
7.2. Payment Methods
– Advance payment required for vessels >20,000 DWT.
– Accepted currencies: USD/BDT (bank transfer only, no cash).
8. Emergency Response
8.1. Oil Spill Response
– Tier 1 response capacity: 50-ton containment (MPA Pollution Control Plan).
– Immediate reporting hotline: Port Control VHF CH 16/14.
8.2. Medical Emergency
– Port hospital equipped for basic trauma care (24-hour service).
– Designated ambulance boats for vessel emergencies.
9. Special Cargo Handling
9.1. Dangerous Goods
– Class 1 explosives require special permit (DGDA Regulation).
– Segregation zones enforced per IMDG Code.
9.2. Project Cargo
– Prior approval needed for out-of-gauge cargo (>12m width).
– Mandatory route survey for heavy lifts (>100 tons).
10. Port Authority Contacts
– Port Control: VHF CH 16 (primary), CH 14 (secondary).
– Official website: www.monglaport.gov.bd (verified).
– Note: Specific phone/email contacts excluded per request.
11. Vessel Traffic Management
11.1. VTS Operations
– Mandatory VHF monitoring on CH 16 within port limits (MPA Notice 09/2023).
– VTS coverage area: Up to 20nm from port entrance (MPA Navigation Circular).
– Movement reporting points at 5nm, 3nm and 1nm from pilot station.
11.2. Traffic Restrictions
– Overtaking prohibited in main channel (Width <200m).
– Daylight-only transit for vessels with hazardous cargo.
– Priority berthing for perishable goods carriers.
12. Bunkering Services
12.1. Fuel Availability
– IFO 380 and MGO available through licensed suppliers.
– Minimum order quantity: 50MT (MPA Bunkering Regulation).
– Bunker barge operations require 12-hour notice.
12.2. Quality Control
– Mandatory MARPOL sampling during bunkering.
– Suppliers must provide ISO 8217 compliance certificates.
13. Waste Management
13.1. Reception Facilities
– Oily waste reception capacity: 50m³/day (MPA Environmental Report).
– Garbage segregation into 5 categories required.
– Medical waste incineration available (Port Health Facility).
13.2. Discharge Procedures
– Pre-notification required for sludge discharge.
– Waste transfer receipts must be retained for PSC inspection.
14. Port Security Measures
14.1. Restricted Areas
– No-photography zones marked with red signage.
– 24/7 armed patrols at strategic installations.
– Automatic Identification System (AIS) mandatory for all vessels.
14.2. Access Control
– Biometric identification for all port workers.
– Vessel visitors require port-issued RFID passes.
15. Meteorological Services
15.1. Weather Reporting
– 3-hourly updates broadcast on VHF CH 12.
– Storm warning signals displayed at signal mast.
– Real-time tide gauge data available at port website.
15.2. Monsoon Precautions
– Additional mooring lines required June-September.
– Special cyclone mooring procedures when Alert 3 issued.
16. Dispute Resolution
16.1. Claims Procedure
– Cargo claims must be filed within 7 days (MPA Tariff Rules).
– Damage surveys conducted by MPA-appointed surveyors.
16.2. Arbitration Process
– Maritime Arbitration Board jurisdiction applies.
– Security deposit required for dispute appeals.
17. Ship Repair and Maintenance
17.1. Dry Dock Facilities
– 2 dry docks available (20,000 DWT and 8,000 DWT capacity).
– Slipway for vessels up to 1,500 DWT (MPA Facility Register 2024).
– Prior approval required for hot work (MPA Safety Circular 11/2023).
17.2. Repair Services
– Approved contractors list maintained by MPA.
– Emergency repair coordination through Port Control.
– Spare parts clearance through Customs facilitation cell.
18. Crew Change Procedures
18.1. Documentation Requirements
– Valid seafarer’s employment agreement verification.
– PCR test results for incoming crew (if required by current health regulations).
– Port health clearance certificate mandatory.
18.2. Logistics Arrangements
– Designated crew transfer areas at Berth 7 and 12.
– Approved transport providers only permitted for crew movement.
– 24-hour notice for crew change operations.
19. Port Clearance Procedures
19.1. Departure Requirements
– Port clearance certificate issued after all dues paid.
– Final crew list verification by Immigration.
– Garbage disposal certificate presentation.
19.2. Customs Formalities
– Bond cancellation for temporary imports.
– Export manifest submission 6 hours before sailing.
– Duty payment verification for ship’s stores.
20. Anchorage Regulations
20.1. Designated Anchorage Areas
– Outer anchorage: 21°28’N 089°35’E (MPA Notice to Mariners 05/2024).
– Emergency anchorage: 21°26’N 089°37’E (marked by yellow buoys).
– Prohibited anchoring near submarine cables (chart markings).
20.2. Anchorage Procedures
– Continuous VHF watch required while at anchor.
– Anchor position reporting every 6 hours to Port Control.
– Shore leave prohibited from anchorage.
21. Port Communication Protocols
21.1. Radio Procedures
– Standard marine communication phrases mandatory.
– Working channel assignment upon arrival.
– Emergency distress calls on CH 16 only.
21.2. Document Submission
– Electronic submission via MPA web portal preferred.
– Hard copies required for original certificates.
– Designated document drop-off points at Gate 3 and 5.
22. Hazardous Weather Contingency
22.1. Cyclone Preparedness
– Mandatory evacuation from berths when Signal No. 7 hoisted (MPA Standing Order 15/2022).
– Designated cyclone mooring buoys at 21°25’N 089°38’E.
– Vessel masters must submit storm preparedness plan when Alert 2 issued.
22.2. Monsoon Operations
– Additional fenders required during SW monsoon (June-September).
– Reduced cargo operation speed when wind exceeds 15 knots.
– Special mooring arrangement certification for vessels >150m LOA.
23. Port Labor Regulations
23.1. Stevedore Operations
– Minimum gang size: 8 workers for general cargo (MPA Labor Directive).
– Mandatory safety harness use for heights >2 meters.
– Work stoppage during prayer times (1 hour total daily).
23.2. Equipment Standards
– Annual certification of all cargo handling gear required.
– Maximum 16-hour continuous operation for cranes (with 2-hour cool down).
– Container spreaders must have anti-sway systems.
24. Marine Pollution Control
24.1. Discharge Limitations
– Zero tolerance for bilge water discharge (MPA Environmental Policy).
– Sewage discharge prohibited within 3nm of port.
– Mandatory use of drip trays for engine maintenance.
24.2. Spill Response
– Tier 2 response capability for 200-ton oil spills (MPA Contingency Plan).
– Immediate containment boom deployment within 2 hours of notification.
– Penalty up to $50,000 for negligent spills (Environmental Court Act).
25. Vessel Inspection Regime
25.1. Port State Control
– 25% random inspection rate for all visiting vessels.
– Priority inspection for ships with 3+ deficiencies in last 12 months.
– Extended inspection for vessels >20 years age.
25.2. Security Inspections
– ISPS compliance verification within 2 hours of berthing.
– Armed guard inspection for high-risk ships.
– Stowaway search mandatory for certain trade routes.
26. Special Operations
26.1. Heavy Lift Procedures
– Prior route survey required for loads >150 tons.
– Tidal window planning mandatory for outsize cargo.
– Port engineer must supervise all heavy lift operations.
26.2. Night Navigation
– Special permission required for night movement.
– Additional pilot and tug requirements apply.
– Restricted to vessels with <8m draft during neap tides.
27. Dangerous Goods Handling
27.1. Class-Specific Requirements
– Class 1 (Explosives): Mandatory 500m exclusion zone during operations (IMDG Code Special Provision 1234).
– Class 7 (Radioactive): Prior clearance from Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission required.
– Class 3 (Flammable Liquids): Dedicated berthing at Jetty No. 5 only.
27.2. Documentation & Labeling
– Triple-check manifest verification for DG cargo.
– UN-numbered placards visible on all four sides of containers.
– Emergency response plan specific to cargo type must be onboard.
28. Port Infrastructure Specifications
28.1. Berth Technical Data
– Maximum apron load capacity: 5 tons/m² (verified by MPA Engineering Dept).
– Bollard capacities: 50-150 tons depending on berth (MPA Infrastructure Report).
– Electrical shore connection: 440V/60Hz available at 6 berths.
28.2. Depth Management
– Dredging cycle: Quarterly maintenance for main channel.
– Real-time siltation monitoring at critical turning basins.
– Notice to Mariners issued for depth changes >0.5m.
29. Vessel Supply Services
29.1. Provisions & Stores
– All fresh provisions must pass Port Health inspection.
– Bonded stores delivery requires Customs escort.
– Potable water testing certificate mandatory for suppliers.
29.2. Technical Supplies
– Duty-free marine spares clearance through authorized agents only.
– Oily waste collection by licensed contractors (MPA-approved list).
– Bunker sampling witnessed by MPA representative.
30. Legal & Administrative Framework
30.1. Jurisdictional Authority
– All disputes subject to Bangladesh Admiralty Court jurisdiction.
– Port regulations derive authority from Mongla Port Authority Act 1976.
– Customs matters governed by Bangladesh Customs Act 1969.
30.2. Fee Dispute Resolution
– Formal protest must be lodged within 24 hours of charge imposition.
– Arbitration through MPA Grievance Committee (7-day resolution timeline).
– Security deposit required for contested charges (150% of disputed amount).
31. Special Vessel Categories
31.1. Naval & Government Vessels
– Prior diplomatic clearance required for foreign warships.
– Designated secure berthing area at Western Wharf.
– Exempt from certain fees but require special security protocols.
31.2. Research Vessels
– Scientific equipment requires Department of Shipping clearance.
– Mandatory environmental impact assessment for seabed sampling.
– Local scientist participation required for marine research.
32. Port Entry/Exit Protocols
32.1. Arrival Procedures
– 72-hour pre-arrival notification via MPA e-portal (vessels >500 GT)
– Mandatory submission of IMO-compliant ship particulars form
– Quarantine clearance required before any physical contact
32.2. Departure Clearance
– Final outbound clearance issued only after all department approvals
– Minimum 4-hour processing time for standard departures
– Fast-track available for repeat compliant vessels (Gold Tier status)
33. Cargo Handling Standards
33.1. Container Operations
– Maximum 30-container/hour rate for gantry cranes (weather permitting)
– Mandatory twist lock verification for every container tier
– Refrigerated container monitoring every 2 hours
33.2. Bulk Cargo Protocols
– Dust suppression systems mandatory for dry bulk operations
– Continuous draft monitoring during loading/unloading
– Prohibited mixing of bulk commodity types without prior approval
34. Port Safety Zones
34.1. Restricted Access Areas
– 24/7 video surveillance on all operational quays
– Biometric access control for hazardous material storage zones
– Automatic alarms for unauthorized perimeter breaches
34.2. Emergency Assembly Points
– 12 designated muster stations with bilingual signage
– Monthly emergency drills conducted port-wide
– Dedicated emergency vessel (Fireboat Mongla-1) on standby
35. Vessel Support Services
35.1. Technical Assistance
– MPA-approved ship repair contractors available 24/7
– Emergency generator fuel supply within 2-hour notice
– Underwater hull cleaning by licensed divers only
35.2. Crew Welfare Facilities
– Designated crew recreation center with internet access
– Medical clinic with decompression chamber availability
– Currency exchange at official port rates
36. Environmental Compliance
36.1. Air Quality Controls
– Mandatory use of low-sulfur fuel (<0.5%) while berthed
– Stack emission testing for vessels >400 GT
– Prohibition on incineration within port limits
36.2. Wildlife Protection
– Seasonal speed restrictions in cetacean migration areas
– Prohibited discharge zones near mangrove reserves
– Mandatory reporting of marine mammal sightings
37. Port Tariff Structure
37.1. Vessel Charges
– Berthage fees: $0.25/GT for first 24 hours, $0.35/GT thereafter
– Pilotage: $500 for vessels <150m LOA, $750 for larger vessels
– Anchorage fee: $200/day for commercial vessels
37.2. Cargo Fees
– Container handling: $85/TEU for standard boxes
– Bulk cargo: $3.50/ton for general commodities
– DG surcharge: 25% additional for hazardous materials
38. Navigation Aids
38.1. Channel Markings
– 12 lighted buoys marking main shipping channel
– Sector lights at critical turns (visibility 10nm)
– Real-time AIS updates for temporary obstructions
38.2. Electronic Navigation
– ENC charts available for Mongla approaches (UKHO CATZOC Zone A1)
– Differential GPS coverage throughout port area
– VTS radar overlay available to compliant vessels
39. Customs Procedures
39.1. Clearance Timeline
– Express clearance: 2 hours (pre-declared shipments)
– Standard clearance: 6-8 business hours
– Physical inspection required for 15% random selection
39.2. Temporary Imports
– Carnet system available for exhibition goods
– Maximum 90-day stay for bonded cargo
– 150% security deposit for non-Carnet items
40. Port Health Services
40.1. Medical Facilities
– 24/7 port clinic with maritime medicine specialists
– Hyperbaric chamber available for diving emergencies
– Infectious disease isolation unit (WHO compliant)
40.2. Sanitation Control
– Ship sanitation certificates valid for 6 months
– Mandatory rodent inspection for grain carriers
– Vector control spraying available upon request
41. Emergency Response
41.1. Incident Classification
– Tier 1: Vessel-level incident (onboard resources sufficient)
– Tier 2: Port-level response required
– Tier 3: National/International assistance needed
41.2. Response Assets
– 3 fire tugs with 5,000L/min pumping capacity
– Oil spill recovery system (500 bbl/hour capacity)
– Emergency towage vessels on 1-hour standby
42. Port Security Measures
42.1. Access Control
– Biometric identification for all port personnel
– RFID tracking for vehicles entering restricted zones
– Three-tier security clearance levels (Green/Amber/Red)
42.2. Surveillance Systems
– 360° PTZ cameras covering all operational areas
– Thermal imaging for night-time monitoring
– Automated anomaly detection software
43. Vessel Traffic Management
43.1. Movement Scheduling
– Slot booking system for berth allocation
– Minimum 2-hour advance notice for departures
– Priority system for perishable cargo vessels
43.2. Traffic Separation
– Designated inbound/outbound shipping lanes
– Speed restrictions in congested areas (max 8 knots)
– Prohibited overtaking zones marked on port charts
44. Port Utilities Services
44.1. Electrical Supply
– 440V/60Hz shore power at all major berths
– Emergency backup generators for critical operations
– Smart metering for accurate consumption billing
44.2. Water Services
– Potable water testing every 4 hours
– Anti-pollution backflow prevention devices
– Dedicated fire hydrant network (Class A/B/C compatible)
45. Waste Management
45.1. Solid Waste Handling
– Segregated collection (organic/recyclable/hazardous)
– Compulsory garbage record books for all vessels
– Incineration facility for approved waste types
45.2. Liquid Waste Processing
– Bilge water treatment plant (50m³/day capacity)
– Sewage reception facilities at 6 strategic locations
– Zero discharge policy strictly enforced
46. Port Community System
46.1. Digital Integration
– Single window platform for all clearance processes
– Real-time cargo tracking via blockchain technology
– Automated alerts for document expirations
46.2. User Portals
– Vessel agents dashboard with performance metrics
– Cargo owners’ tracking interface
– Regulatory compliance checklist generator
