BENAPOLE, Sept 18 (UNB): The construction of a new cargo terminal at Benapole land port in Jashore has been completed at a cost of over Tk 3.0 billion, and it is expected to open in October, according to port authorities.
Once operational, the terminal will accommodate 1,200 to 1,500 cargo trucks at a time, enhancing trade efficiency, and boosting revenue collection.
Benapole port currently handles about 7,000 to 8,000 metric tonnes of imported goods from India daily, and space shortages often lead to goods being stored in open areas.
Besides, Indian trucks face delays in unloading due to a lack of space.
Port users believe the new terminal will help address these issues.
Revenue at the port has seen a significant growth -- from Tk 24.25 billion in fiscal year 2011-12 to TK 57.86 billion in 2022-23.
Imports have surged as well, rising from 1.2 million tonnes to over 2.035 million tonnes during the same period.
The 24-acre terminal project had been taken up to ease congestion of vehicles and improve the port's capacity, at a total cost of Tk 3.29 billion, including land acquisition and construction expenses.
The new facility includes modern amenities such as parking areas, cargo and utility buildings, fire stations, and advanced scanning and surveillance systems.
Project Director Hasan Ali expressed confidence that the terminal will be ready for inauguration by October, with the final step being the installation of electricity connections.
Shamsur Rahman, president of the Benapole Customs C&F Agents Association, praised the terminal's infrastructure, anticipating it will reduce congestion and increase government revenue.
