More Ships to Bangladesh Shipbreakers

CTG ship-breakers import 42 large ships in last two months

Chittagong-based ship-breakers imported 42 large-sized recyclable ships in February and March this year at a cost of US$ 45 million, according to Jasim Khan's news report in the Financial Express.

Industry sources said the ships will be able to supply about one million tonnes of MS rod -- a major construction material -- against the annual national demand for four million tonnes.

The government earlier suspended import of recyclable ships for about a year to reduce related accidental and environmental hazards. Later on, it introduced new rules for ship breaking, and formed a Ship Breaking Cell at the Ministry of Industries to implement the rules.

Both the industry people and ministry officials said they are now working together, with their limited workforce, to ensure 100% compliance with the new ship-breaking rules.

The ship-breaking industry that has developed in Chittagong, is the main source of raw materials of some 500 private sector re-rolling mills and 50 steel mills to produce mild steel rods, bars, and angles at affordable prices.

The industry is also contributing to the local ship-building sector through supplying used machineries and materials.