Scanning system at Ctg port gets a go-ahead

The scanning system is aimed at ensuring smooth examination of import and export cargoes carried by containers.

A committee was formed with representatives from the National Board of Revenue (NBR), Chittagong port, Chittagong Customs House and some intelligence agencies to spearhead the move.

Headed by the NBR chairman, the committee was asked to complete all formalities for installation of the scanners by December.

Process is underway to prepare a project concept profile (PCP) in this regard. After completion of PCP, tenders will be floated for procurement of scanner machines, sources said.

The plan was taken with a view to checking entry of smuggled weapons through containers and tax evasion by a section of unscrupulous traders who submit false declaration against the consignment.

With the growing threats of terrorism worldwide, many countries, especially the United States, became very alert while receiving container cargoes from other countries. And the Chittagong port authority was also advised to scan the containers properly before export, officials said, adding that the inland container depot (ICD) in Dhaka would also be brought under the scanning system.

At the initial stage, three scanners are likely to be procured for installation at the Chittagong port and three more will be purchased later.

Commissioner of Chittagong Customs House Dr Rashidul Ahsan Chowdhury said, "We are badly in need of this scanning system to ensure thorough examination of container cargoes." The containers are now being examined through a manual process.

"Besides, the scanning system will help us give a faster delivery of containers from the port after quick examination and assessment. As a result, the trend of tax evasion by false declaration of goods will be checked and revenue earnings will go up," he said.

"On the other hand, the scanning system will effectively check carrying of weapons or any illegal goods through containers," he added.

"In fact, it is difficult to examine all the goods inside the containers through a manual process," the commissioner said, adding that all the advanced countries examine the containers with scanners.

Chittagong port Chief Engineer Shafayet Hossain Khan said, "With the introduction of scanning system, all unethical practices in import and export business through Chittagong port will be stopped. Even carrying of smuggled weapons by containers will never be possible if examined with scanners".

"We have also been advised by foreign countries to introduce scanning system immediately," he added. "However, it will never affect our trade activities at all."

Chittagong port now handles over five lakh containers a year and the consignees also prefer shipment of cargoes through containers for safety and security of their goods, port sources said.