Amit Shah, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, inaugurated the Passenger Terminal Building and Maitri Dwar at Land Port, Petrapole in West Bengal today (Oct 27).

The crossing at Petrapole is the largest land port in South Asia and a vital gateway for trade and commerce between the two countries. 

In his remarks, Union Home Minister said that the Land Port Authority of India (LPAI) is making a significant contribution to country’s development, along with improving relations with neighbours, and facilitating the exchange of language, culture, and literature. 

He also said that LPAI is opening pathways of friendship for border security, border trade, border connectivity, and connectivity among people in eastern India.

Petrapole (India)-Benapole (Bangladesh) is one of the most important land border crossings between the two countries, both in terms of trade and passenger movement, a statement said. 

Nearly 70 per cent of land-based trade (by value) between India and Bangladesh occurs through this facility, which is under the administrative control of the Land Ports Authority of India, a wing of the Ministry of Home Affairs. 

It is also the eighth largest international immigration port of India and facilitates the movement of over 23.5 lakh passengers annually between India and Bangladesh.

The new passenger terminal at Petrapole is a significant addition to the region's infrastructure and is set to enhance the travel experience between the two countries, the statement said. 

With its robust construction and advanced technological systems, the terminal promises safety, efficiency, and comfort for all users.

BDST: 2119 HRS, OCT 27, 2024
MSK