Cargo stuck in Bangladesh heads to Bhutan after India clears transit

Government holidays caused delay in permission, an official says

Transshipment goods stuck in Bangladesh for four days have finally moved to Bhutan after India granted transit approval.

These goods, originating from Thailand, are being transported to the Burimari border in Lalmonirhat through Chittagong Port as a trial under the transshipment agreement.

They were originally meant to travel to Bhutan via Indian roads, but the container had been stuck at Burimari Land Port since Friday due to India’s pending clearance.

The container was sent to India from Burimari Land Port via Changrabandha Land Port around 5:30pm on Monday, said Delwar Hossain, assistant commissioner of Burimari Land Customs Station.

“The consignment of Thai goods imported for Bhutan was sent after receiving permission from India. From there, the goods will reach Bhutan via the Indian transit route.”

C&F leaders said Kolkata Customs granted permission in the afternoon to send the consignment by road.

The decision was later officially communicated to Bangladesh Customs.

After document verification, the container crossed the zero line and proceeded towards India with assistance from Benko Limited.

Faruk Hossain, president of Burimari C&F Agents Association said, “There was a delay in getting permission due to government holidays in India and Bhutan.

“Complications also arose because the Burimari route was not mentioned in the commerce secretary-level agreement.

“India granted approval after all the formalities were completed."