The New Nation - Internet Edition

Bdnews24.com, Dhaka

The US has asked Chittagong Port Authority to install container scanners and radiation detectors immediately to ensure safe transportation of goods through the port, an official said yesterday.

US ambassador James F Moriarty also promised that his country would supply and help install the radiation detection equipment at the port, CPA chairman Commodore Muhammed Farooque said.

After a 45-minute meeting with the ambassador, the CPA chairman told reporters that they had discussed port activities.

Farooque said the authorities had taken up scanner and radiation detection equipment projects in cooperation with the US, but Monday's meeting was meant to fast-track their implementation.

Farooque said the container scanner and radiation detectors would save time, in addition to ensuring safety, to deliver goods bound for the US and European ports. "It now takes up to eight days to complete scanning and other security tasks at other ports," he said.