Import-export through Benapole to remain shut for 7 days for Eid

Import-export trade through Benapole, the country's largest land port, will remain suspended for seven consecutive days on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.

Port operations, customs activities, and cargo clearance services will be closed from May 25 to May 31, resuming from the morning of June 1.

However, passenger movement with valid passports will continue uninterrupted during the period.

Badruzzaman Bani, general secretary of the Benapole C&F Agents Staff Association, said the decision was taken following discussions between traders of both countries.

"Import and export activities will effectively come to a halt from this afternoon. No cargo-laden trucks will enter or leave the port from May 25 to May 31," he said.

Bani said the suspension follows an established pattern, as customs officials, port authority employees, and business staff typically go on leave during Eid, while most importers travel to their home districts, reducing demand for cargo clearance. The customs house will remain open on a limited scale except on Eid day.

The suspension covers cargo transportation between Benapole and India's Petrapole port, with loading, unloading, and cargo handling also halted. Emergency arrangements will be available if required.

Benapole Port Director (Traffic) Md Shamim Hossain said security has been strengthened during the holiday period. "Port security personnel and Ansar members will conduct round-the-clock patrols, while police will remain on alert," he said, adding that emergency cargo clearance assistance would be provided if needed.

Benapole Port Police Station OC Ashraf Hossain said law enforcement personnel would be deployed at key points to prevent any untoward incidents.

On passenger movement, Checkpost Immigration Police Inspector (Investigation) Syed Mortaza Ali said additional immigration officials have been kept ready to handle anticipated increases in passenger volume during the Eid period.