3 more land ports to be opened for Bangladeshis returning from India from May 16

Considering the distress of Bangladeshis still stranded in India, three more land ports -- in addition to Benapole, Burimari and Akhaura -- would be opened for their entry from May 16.

The new land ports are Darshana, Hili and Sona Masjid, said foreign ministry following an inter-ministerial meeting yesterday.

As the facilities for quarantine under the district administration of Jashore have been exhausted, entry through Benapole might be suspended for the time being, it said.

The Bangladeshi travellers are requested to follow the guidance of Bangladesh missions in India in this regard.

All other restrictions and conditions imposed previously would remain in effect.

Foreign Ministry Secretary Masud Bin Momen chaired the meeting attended by High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India; Secretary, Security Services Division, Ministry of Home Affairs; Secretary (East), Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Additional Secretary, Cabinet Division; Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and representatives of MoFA, MoHA, AFD, BGB, relevant district administrations and Bangladesh missions in India.