Staff Reporter :
The Benapole land port in Jessore witnessed a historic surge in passenger traffic during the recent Eid-ul-Fitr and Bengali New Year holidays.
A record number of travellers crossed the border between Bangladesh and India, marking a significant increase compared to regular days.
Over 32,000 people traversed between the two nations during the five-day period from Eid Day (April 11th) to April 15th at 2 PM. This figure represents a six-fold increase compared to the usual passenger volume.
The surge in travelers overwhelmed immigration staff at both Benapole and Petrapole (the checkpoint on the Indian side). Long queues and delays plagued the immigration process; with passengers experiencing extended waiting times, particularly at Petrapole.
According to Benapole immigration sources, it was known that a total of 32,283 travellers traversed between the two countries between April 11th (Eid Day) and April 15th.
The sources also revealed that 19,000 passengers went to India from Bangladesh, while 13,283 passengers came to Bangladesh from India.
With the conclusion of the government holidays, a significant increase in travellers returning from India has been observed since Monday.
Kamruzzaman Biswas, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Benapole Checkpost Immigration Police, attributed the surge to the extended holidays, which allowed people to travel to India for sightseeing and medical treatment.
He said, “Typical passenger volume is between 5,000 and 6,000; however, this has significantly surpassed this during this festive period.
Rashid Ahmed, a resident of Jessore city, shared his experience of celebrating Eid and the Bangla New Year in India with his family. He entered India through Benapole on the eve of Eid.
Rashid travelled to India for medical treatment for his wife and son while also enjoying some leisure time. They spent time in Siliguri and Kolkata during their visit. However, the influx of Bangladeshi visitors created challenges in finding accommodation, particularly in old Kolkata.
Hotels reportedly increased their prices, forcing travellers like Rashid to search extensively for suitable lodging.