An advanced scanner, capable of detecting any hidden metal objects, was installed at the cargo vehicle terminal of Benapole Port in Jashore yesterday (24 December).
The scanner is expected to become fully operational in early January following a series of trial runs, officials said.
Faisal Ahsan Sojib, assistant director of Benapole Land Port, said, “The installation of the scanner will bring transparency and accountability to trade and will contribute to the swift import of goods. We expect it to be operational in January.”
Its installation at the truck entry gate in the zero line is nearing completion. Once operational, it is expected that the scanner will help reduce harassment for traders and significantly enhance trade security.
Benapole and Petrapole ports handle the most trade between Bangladesh and India via land routes.
The interim government has purchased six scanners, funded by the National Board of Revenue , with one now installed at Benapole Port to check smuggling.
Shamsur Rahman, president of the Benapole C&F agents association, said that the scanner is being introduced in response to traders’ demands, which will enhance trade security.