Dhaka: Import and export operations through Hili land port will be suspended for eight consecutive days from September 26 to October 3 due to the observance of Sharadiya Durga Puja, a significant religious festival for the Hindu community.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sakhawat Hossain Shilpi, President of the Hili Land Port Importers and Exporters Association, confirmed that traders from both Bangladesh and India mutually agreed to suspend operations during this period. However, unloading of goods inside the Panama Port will continue on working days, excluding government holidays. Passenger movement through Hili Immigration Check Post with valid passports will remain unaffected.
Md. Ferdous Rahman, President of the Hili Land Port C and F Agents Association, explained that the temporary halt in trade is due to religious formalities in India during the festival. Regular import-export activities are set to resume on Saturday, October 4.
Md. Nizam Uddin, Revenue Officer of Hili Customs Department, stated that while export-import activities will be paused, the customs office will operate as usual on working days. Importers will receive necessary assistance from customs officials for clearing their goods.
Officer-in-Charge of Hili Immigration Check Post Police Md. Ariful Islam assured that travelers with valid documents will be able to cross between Bangladesh and India daily from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm during the Puja period.