Accra:The Bangladesh Post Office has experienced a significant increase in the volume of goods transported through its services. In the first three months of this year, 329 tonnes of goods were carried, compared to 243 tonnes in the same period last year, marking a nearly 33 percent rise.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this growth is attributed to small entrepreneurs, such as those in the garment sector and small industries, who are increasingly using postal services to send goods. The postal department is actively encouraging these businesses to utilize its services for exports, offering support and maintaining cost-based, affordable rates. This has led to a greater awareness and usage of the postal facilities.
The department has also enhanced its parcel services with a track-and-trace system through domestic mail monitoring software. This system allows senders to receive an SMS with a link to track their parcels, providing real-time updates on their location as they move through different stages of delivery.
Zakir Hasan Noor, Additional Director General (Postal Services), mentioned that the postal service is providing facilities similar to courier services and is facilitating exports by allowing small entrepreneurs to send goods commercially up to a certain level. The department is also collaborating with several institutions involved in the export process to further support these businesses.
Internationally, the postal department now offers EMS services to 52 countries, including major destinations such as Australia, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. Parcels generally reach their destinations within eight to ten days, though customs processes can occasionally extend this timeline.
The postal service is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence to improve mail management. The combination of DMS software with reporting tools helps monitor mail operations and analyze data to optimize routes and determine the need for additional vehicles. This strategic approach, integrating AI with the department's extensive transportation experience, aims to enhance efficiency.
Additionally, the department has embarked on a digital postal boundary and address management project, expected to be completed within the next year. This initiative will further improve AI-based decision-making and streamline mail delivery routes. The department anticipates positive outcomes from these advancements in the upcoming financial year.