The Chattogram Port e-challan upgrade strengthens cargo release checks.

Summary

Chattogram Port Authority has added two payment verification references to its online cargo-release documents. The change allows officials to check customs duty, tax and port-charge payments before vehicles leave the port. It forms part of a wider digital transition that includes online billing, banking integration and electronic gate procedures.

Two references support final payment checks.

The Chattogram Port e-challan system now includes separate references confirming settlement of customs liabilities and port charges, strengthening checks at the final stage of cargo delivery.

Announced on 13 October 2026, the update adds the Bill of Entry’s R Number, confirming customs duty and tax payment, and the CP Number, confirming payment of port fees and charges.

These references appear on e-challans generated through the Terminal Operating System, or TOS. The e-challan serves as the final document for cargo gate-out and delivery, allowing relevant departments to verify both payment categories before authorising cargo-carrying vehicles to leave.

The authority expects the feature to reduce fraud and improve transparency and service efficiency. Importers, consignees, shipping agents, clearing and forwarding agents and other users have been asked to use the updated facility. tbsnews.net

Change follows container-payment transition

The verification upgrade comes shortly after the port extended its transition period for fully online container bill payments.

Under an earlier notice dated 30 September, users may continue paying Consignee Bill for Container charges through pay orders and bank revolving accounts alongside online banking until 31 October.

From 1 November, those bills are scheduled to move exclusively to online banking channels. Pay orders and revolving-account payments will no longer be accepted for this bill category under the announced arrangement.

The extension followed a request from the Chattogram Customs Agents Association and concerns about technical difficulties with the online system. It gave agents and consignees additional time to prepare.

The authority also reported completion of technical integration between Sonali Bank’s online gateway and the port’s payment system, enabling users to settle port bills through that channel. tbsnews.net

Earlier banking dispute highlights implementation needs

The transition has involved adjustments to banking arrangements. In September, a directive requiring users to pay charges through Eastern Bank prompted objections from importers, exporters and clearing agents.

Some cargo-clearance processes were disrupted on 22 September, with users reporting difficulties because they did not maintain accounts with the designated bank. The authority withdrew the directive later that day.

This earlier episode provides context for the subsequent extension and additional banking integration. It shows that changing payment procedures affects businesses responsible for arranging clearance, transport and delivery.

The latest e-challan feature addresses verification of completed payments. It is distinct from the choice of banking channel and does not itself announce a new payment restriction. tbsnews.net

Verification links banking records with operations

Existing port payment instructions illustrate how reference-based checks already support the digital process.

The Eastern Bank EBLConnect manual requires users to enter a port bill reference number and validate it. A valid reference displays the bill breakdown; an invalid entry generates an error message.

The procedure also allows multiple bills to be queued and sent for checking and authorisation. These instructions describe one banking workflow rather than a requirement for every port user to adopt that bank.

Adding payment references to the final release document extends the importance of accurate information beyond bill settlement. The operational implication is that payment records must remain consistent with the cargo documentation used by port departments and clearing agents. cpatos.gov.bd

Wider programme targets electronic cargo procedures

The port’s wider digital programme includes planned online gate passes, gate-in and gate-out operations, time-slot management, cart tickets, e-gate challans and vessel electronic no-objection certificates.

Earlier announcements also outlined links between container pickup or drop-off tickets, equipment interchange receipts and electronic gate passes. Real-time document verification, online bill generation and inland container depot integration were among the proposed measures.

The authority identified December 2026 as its target for becoming a fully paperless, smart port. That remains an implementation objective, while the newly announced payment-reference feature is a specific change within the broader programme. tbsnews.net

For port users, the practical priority is keeping customs and port-payment information accurate and accessible throughout clearance. The expected benefit is easier final verification; the announcement does not quantify reductions in delivery time or reported fraud.

FAQs

What has changed in the e-challan system?

Two payment verification references have been added: the R Number and CP Number.

What does the R Number confirm?

Payment of customs duties and taxes associated with the Bill of Entry.

What does the CP Number confirm?

Payment of port fees and charges.

Why are the references important?

They help officials verify payments before authorising cargo gate-out and delivery.

When are container consignee bills scheduled to become fully online?

From 1 November 2026, following the transition period ending on 31 October.