BSF halts Benapole vehicle terminal construction over border concerns
Bangladesh
The construction of a 16-acre cargo vehicle terminal at Benapole Land Port has been halted for 11 days following objections from India's Border Security Force (BSF).
The BSF alleged that the construction violates a 150-yard border buffer zone.
Bangladesh Land Port Authority Chairman Md Zillur Rahman Chowdhury confirmed the suspension and stated that the issue would be resolved through bilateral discussions.
Meanwhile, concerns regarding project delays and potential border tension have arisen due to the stoppage. Industry experts urge swift diplomatic dialogue between the two nations to find a solution.
Benapole Land Port Director (Traffic) Rezaul Karim reiterated the project's intended completion by June 2024, aiming to alleviate congestion and streamline cargo handling.
Due to convenient parking, port officials will be able to unload cargo from trucks swiftly. However, the ongoing BSF objection is currently hindering progress.
He expressed optimism that a joint meeting between the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the BSF will facilitate the resumption of construction soon.
Jashore 49 BGB Battalion Commander Lt Colonel Ahmed Hasan Jamil acknowledged the BSF's action and assured that discussions with port authorities and BSF will lead to a fruitful solution and a swift restart of construction.
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