Port workers demand stimulus for working during lockdown

Some 7,000 workers in Chattogram port have outlined 4-point demand, as they are risking their lives in the time of coronavirus outbreak.

The Chattogram Port Employees' Council, on behalf of the workers, placed the demands to the chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority.

Their demands include- incentives equivalent to the monthly wages and the incentive payment should start from Tk500 to Tk1,000.

In case of the death of any worker from coronavirus, immediate employment should be given to at least one suitable person from the deceased's family at the port according to his qualifications, the demands added.

Lastly, according to the prime minister's declaration in her speech to the nation, the announcement of special financial incentive of Tk5 lakh to Tk10 lakh should be given to the port workers too and the amount should be five times more if any worker dies from the novel coronavirus.

Nayebul Islam Fatik, acting general secretary of the Chittagong Port Employees' Council (CBA), said, "The government have already announced incentives in several sectors, including banking, garments and health, but did not cover port employees. However, during this crisis period, workers of 15 departments of the port including marine, mechanical, traffic, security, electricity, hospital are working risking their lives. We are demanding incentives from the government."

Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, Abul Kalam Azad said, "We have received an application from the Port Employees Council regarding the incentives. The most important thing is to keep the Chattogram port operational. Workers welfare will be given utmost importance."