Urdu Report Desk
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to install modern scanners at all international airports in Pakistan to improve passenger convenience and replace outdated baggage inspection procedures.
Chairing a meeting on customs operations in Islamabad on Saturday, the prime minister ordered officials to arrange the immediate air shipment of the scanners and ensure their installation at international airports across the country.
Passenger Convenience to Be Prioritized
Sharif instructed customs officials to avoid unnecessary questioning of passengers and gradually increase reliance on automated systems for baggage inspections.
He said passenger comfort and convenience must remain the top priority and made it clear that no one would be allowed to harass travellers.
The prime minister also directed authorities to train airport staff according to international standards, emphasizing courtesy and respect for passengers as essential elements of their training.
Crackdown on Tax Evasion and Smuggling
Sharif praised the Federal Board of Revenue’s new customs enforcement system and called for stronger action against tax evasion and smuggling.
He said businesses that pay their taxes deserve respect, while authorities must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to tax evasion.
Officials Brief on Customs Enforcement Measures
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on customs enforcement at airports, seaports and other locations, as well as measures to curb the smuggling of petroleum products.
They reported progress in establishing digital enforcement stations and integrating customs enforcement operations into a coordinated nationwide system.
Rs205 Million Worth of Goods Seized in Three Weeks
Officials said the Indus Collectorate (Enforcement) seized goods worth approximately Rs205 million during 80 operations in its first three weeks.
A total of 865 personnel have been deployed to monitor and conduct enforcement operations along 26 major routes as part of efforts to prevent smuggling.
Operations Against Smuggled Goods Continue
The meeting was informed that enforcement operations against smuggled textiles, vehicles, cigarettes, high-speed diesel, auto parts and other goods were continuing.
Officials also reported that recruitment of 280 goods appraisers had been completed. Their training is scheduled for October and November 2026.
Senior Government Officials Attend Meeting
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Musadik Malik, Ahsan Khan Cheema, Attaullah Tarar and Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, National Assembly members Usman Owaisi and Rana Iradat Sharif Khan, along with senior officials, also attended the meeting.
