ATOZ GETIDEA

A report of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has presented an alarming picture of corruption at the Mongla sea port in Bagerhat and at the Burimari land port in Lalmonirhat. According to TIB’s study, along with all sorts of other corruption, a hefty sum has to be paid per truck at the Burimari land port. This is taken in the name of the truck drivers’ union. The rampant corruption at these ports is just the tip of the iceberg. Every port is said to be submerged in the mire of corruption. According to media reports on Tuesday, Indian traders have stopped their imports and exports in protest of having to pay additional amounts at the Benapole land port. They have to pay an extra Tk 1700 as ‘baksheesh’ or ‘gratuity’ to unload each truck. The businesspersons of both countries have held meetings in the regard, but the matter remains unresolved. This is a matter of shame for the country as a whole.