UK ban on cargo to go, hopes Menon
DHAKA, March 22, 2016 (BSS) – Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Rashed Khan Menon today hoped the UK government will withdraw its ban on direct cargo flight from Dhaka soon, as the Bangladesh government has taken all measures following guidelines of British security experts.
The minister’s reaction came as newly appointed British Redline Aviation Security Ltd began the work to upgrade the security management and training of personnel at HSIA.
On 8 March, the UK imposed a temporary ban on direct air cargo shipment from Dhaka to London, citing security issues.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has signed an agreement yesterday with the British company to provide three types of services – consultancy, supervision of airport security as well as running and training the airport personnel.
The government appointed the British firm at a cost of Tk 73.25 crore till March 2018. Under the agreement, a total of 29 aviation experts from Redline will work at HSIA.
Replying to a query, Menon said the work was given to the firm following all necessary rules and regulations. “There is a provision in government procurement procedure to give work to a company without calling tender in a case of emergency,” he said.
Before awarding the task, the CAAB had negotiated with three UK firms – Restrata, Redline and Westminster Group – following recommendation of the UK. After necessary scrutiny the Redline got the job, official sources said.
A group of British security personnel of Redline has started its work at HSIA today.
