Mongla, Jan 14, (V7N) - Mongla (Bagerhat) Correspondent: Three luxury Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs, imported under duty-free privileges by three former Members of Parliament (MPs), have been put up for auction at Mongla Port. Despite the auction announcement, only one bid was submitted, leaving the other two vehicles without any takers.
 
The SUVs were imported on July 17 last year by Anupam Shahjahan Joy (Tangail-08), Muhammad Zakaria (Dinajpur-01), and Nasima Zaman Bobby (reserved women’s seat). Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 and the dissolution of the 12th National Parliament by the President on August 6, the MPs could not release the vehicles for use.
 
Background
The vehicles, each valued at approximately BDT 10 crore, have since remained at the port. Investigations reveal that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left for India amidst political turmoil, leading to the dissolution of Parliament. The former MPs, now reportedly in hiding or living abroad, lost access to these duty-free luxury vehicles.
 
Port Challenges
Mongla Port authorities face significant challenges managing the vehicles. Director (Traffic) Md. Kamal Hossain stated that over 300 vehicles, including the three Land Cruisers, have been left unattended at the port, becoming damaged over time. Despite repeated auctions, many vehicles remain unsold, causing operational disruptions.
 
Mongla Customs House issued legal notices to importers, including the former MPs, to claim their vehicles. When no action was taken, the vehicles were seized and put up for auction on November 25 last year. Assistant Commissioner Md. Rubel Hasan confirmed that only one bid was received, leaving two vehicles unclaimed.
 
Historical Context
The provision for duty-free vehicle imports was first introduced in 1987 by former military ruler H.M. Ershad to appease MPs. While the caretaker government revoked the policy in 2007, it was reinstated by the Awami League in 2009. Over the past 15 years, this policy has reportedly cost the government thousands of crores in lost revenue.
 
Mongla Port authorities continue to urge swift resolution to the issue to prevent further loss and operational challenges.
 
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