Import operations through the Benapole–Petrapole land border, the busiest trade gateway between India and Bangladesh, have come to a standstill following operational complications that disrupted the movement of cargo vehicles across the border. The suspension has affected the clearance of a wide range of goods, causing delays in bilateral trade.
The disruption has resulted in long queues of trucks on both sides of the border as customs clearance and cargo handling activities slowed significantly. Importers and transporters have expressed concern over mounting logistics costs, delayed deliveries and potential supply chain disruptions if the situation persists.
The Benapole–Petrapole corridor handles a substantial share of the trade between India and Bangladesh, including agricultural products, textiles, chemicals, machinery and consumer goods. Any interruption at the border has an immediate impact on exporters, importers and logistics operators dependent on the route.
Customs authorities and border officials from both countries are working to resolve the operational issues and restore normal cargo movement at the earliest. Trade bodies have urged authorities to expedite the process to minimise disruptions and prevent congestion from worsening.
Industry stakeholders said prolonged delays could increase transportation costs, affect inventory planning and disrupt cross-border supply chains. They remain hopeful that coordinated efforts by Indian and Bangladeshi authorities will enable import operations to resume quickly and restore the smooth flow of goods through the key land port.