The digitalisation of several key procedures at Bhomra Land Port is set to expedite shipments at this busy border crossing, lowering the time and cost of trade for businesses, while potentially enhancing the competitiveness of the Bangladeshi economy.
The new, customised system will replace current manual procedures, encompassing the management of cargo, weight, gate passes, yard/shade, billing, and notifications. Its introduction, including the real-time tracking of trucks, will reduce the risk of cargo damage, as well as strengthening overall security and transparency. The widespread replacement of paper-based processes will transform the trading experience for all port stakeholders, including businesses, truckers, clearing agents and officials.
The Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, through its implementing partner, Swisscontact, is supporting the Government through the Bangladesh Land Port Authority (BLPA), an independent body under the Ministry of Shipping (MoS) in executing the Digitalisation of Border Procedures of Bhomra Land Port project, which may also comprise an additional e-Payment component.
At a recent meeting with project team leaders, BLPA Chairman Mohammad Alamgir described it as a ‘flagship’ initiative, not only for Bhomra Land Port but potentially benefiting national trade and transportation, citing the potential for replicating e-Port systems in the country’s other land ports.