The general manager of the port authority of Douala (PAD), Emmanuel Etoundi Oyono has disclosed the need of a 24-hour continuous service at the port in order to reduce congestion.

Emmanuel Etoundi Oyono made this remark on 5th November during a consultation meeting between economic operators and the Ministry of Trade in Yaounde.

During the meeting to assess the market situation ahead of the end of year festivities, the economic operators were optimistic about stable uninterrupted supply but feared the congested port could hinder movement of goods, causing shortage or price inflation.

Difficulties faced in anchoring ships containing goods which are sometimes perishable and the poor management of storage space were amongst the problems identified.

Meanwhile, some operators were accused of abandoning goods for as long as 60 days, violating the 11 days stipulated in the regulation. Such goods, port officials noted, end up being auctioned.

While calling on customs officers to effectively carry out their duties, the General Manager of PAD announced the need to increase hours of work at the port in order to tackle overcrowding.

Mr Emmanuel Etoundi in this light, called on government to modify the regulatory texts and provide remuneration for those to work extra time especially at night in the port in Douala.