PM Shehbaz orders installation of smart scanners at airports

Islamabad - In a recent directive, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has mandated the installation of advanced scanners at all international airports to enhance the travel experience for passengers, according to a statement from his office. During a meeting to discuss customs enforcement in Islamabad, the premier instructed the immediate importation of these scanners, which would replace manual baggage searches conducted by customs officials.

PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of passenger convenience and comfort, pledging that no individual would be subjected to unwarranted inquiries at airports. He also emphasized the need to discard outdated procedures for screening luggage and stressed that the welfare and dignity of employees providing services at airports must be upheld.

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) announced that an internationally recognized automated system would be introduced for baggage screening, and staff involved in other airport services would receive training aligned with international standards. Commending the Customs department's new enforcement system, the premier praised Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial and his team for their commendable initiative.

The premier reiterated a firm stance against tax evasion, vowing to take stringent action against those who evade taxes while safeguarding the interests of tax-paying businesses. The meeting also reviewed the movement of goods and monitoring across the country, as well as the performance of the Customs Enforcement Force and measures to prevent the smuggling of petroleum products.

An update revealed that significant progress had been made in establishing and deploying Digital Enforcement Stations under Customs Enforcement. In its initial three weeks of operation, the Indus Collectorate executed 80 operations, seizing goods worth approximately Rs205 million. A total of 865 personnel were deployed across 26 major transit routes.

To address smuggling of textiles, vehicles, cigarettes, and other goods, 280 goods valuers have been recruited and will undergo training this month and in November. The meeting was informed that the customs enforcement system had been consolidated into a single, coordinated organization operating nationwide due to FBR's anti-smuggling reforms.