1,900 MT of Indian potatoes imported to stabilize market prices

In an effort to stabilize overheated local markets, a shipment of 1,900 metric tons (MT) of potatoes from India arrived in Bangladesh, officials reported on Wednesday.  

The potatoes were transported by an Indian freight train, which reached Benapole Rail Station through the country’s largest land port in Jashore around 9:30 pm on Tuesday, according to Stationmaster Saiduzzaman.  

The train, consisting of 42 wagons loaded with potatoes, originated from Punjab, India. The shipment was exported by Deluxe International, based in Malda, West Bengal, as noted in a UNB report.  

Faruk Iqbal Dablu, a representative of Bangladesh Logistic Service, confirmed that the potato-laden train departed Benapole Station for Noapara after completing customs and railway formalities on Tuesday night.  

The potatoes will be distributed across the country, including major destinations such as Dhaka and Chattogram, Dablu added.  

Deputy Director of Benapole Land Port, Rashedul Sajib Nazir, stated that the shipment contains 38,000 sacks of potatoes, weighing a total of 1,900 MT.  

He also mentioned that each kilogram of potatoes was purchased from India at Tk 28.5 and assured that authorities are expediting the release of the consignment.