Bangladesh port strike affects trade with India

Wednesday, 15 January 2003, 20:30 IST
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DHAKA: Trade between Bangladesh and India through the Benapole land port remained suspended Wednesday after workers and clearing and forwarding agents went on an indefinite strike, said a port official. They were protesting the alleged misbehaviour of Benapole port joint commissioner Maksul Kabir towards workers and other employees. He is alleged to have cancelled agents' licences and permits on "flimsy grounds". But port officials accused the clearing and forwarding agents of demanding illegal benefits from Kabir, who was transferred to Benapole recently. The workers, who began the strike Tuesday, held protest rallies and marches. Port sources said that the government incurs a loss of more than $500,000 every day if port activities remain suspended.
Source: IANS
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