Ctg port detects radiation in scrap shipment from Brazil

Authorities at Chattogram port have detected radioactive material in a container of scrap iron shipped from Brazil, prompting the temporary suspension of its unloading.

Sources say the radiation was identified by the "Mega-port Initiative Radiation Detection System" -- a security measure funded by an American organisation and operational at Chattogram port to scan containers for radioactive substances.

Initial tests by officials at the Chittagong Custom House measured radiation levels at approximately one microsievert (µSv), a unit used to quantify exposure to ionising radiation.

While this level is not considered high, authorities are awaiting comprehensive testing to determine the exact nature and risk level of the material inside the container.

The container is part of a shipment of 135 tonnes of scrap iron imported from Brazil by Al Aksa Steel Limited, a rod manufacturing company based in Demra, Dhaka.

It was unloaded from the ship MV Mount Cameron at Jetty No 9 of the port's General Cargo Berth Terminal on August 3. The radiation alarm was triggered while the container was being moved through Gate No 4.

Secretary of the Chattogram Port Authority, Omar Faruk, confirmed the detection, saying, "Radioactivity was found in a container carrying scrap from Brazil, which is why unloading has been suspended as a precaution."

Following the alarm, the container was isolated in a secure area within the port. A formal report has been sent to the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, whose experts will conduct on-site tests to assess the container's radioactivity.

Appropriate safety and regulatory actions will be taken based on their findings.

This is not the first incident of radioactive material detected at Bangladesh's ports. In 2014, stainless steel scrap destined for India was intercepted in Colombo and subsequently returned to Chattogram after traces of radioactive material were found.

Authorities say they are continuing to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety and prevent any potential health hazards.

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