Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the installation of smart scanners at all international airports in Pakistan. The initiative aims to reduce passenger inconvenience and modernize baggage inspection procedures.
During a meeting on customs operations in Islamabad on Saturday, the prime minister instructed authorities to arrange the immediate air shipment of the scanners. He directed officials to install the equipment at international airports across the country.
Shehbaz Sharif also called on customs officials to avoid unnecessary questioning of passengers. He emphasized that automated systems should increasingly replace outdated baggage inspection methods.
The prime minister said passenger comfort and convenience must remain the top priorities at airports. He made it clear that travelers should not face harassment during customs checks.
He also instructed authorities to train airport staff according to international standards. The training should focus on professional behavior, courtesy, and respectful treatment of passengers.
Shehbaz Sharif Directs Action Against Tax Evasion
During the meeting, the prime minister praised the Federal Board of Revenue’s new customs enforcement system. He called for stronger measures to prevent tax evasion and smuggling.
Shehbaz Sharif said businesses that pay their taxes deserve respect from government authorities. However, he stressed that tax evasion must be addressed through a zero-tolerance policy.
Officials briefed the meeting on customs enforcement activities at airports, seaports, and other locations. They also provided updates on efforts to control petroleum smuggling.
The briefing covered progress in establishing digital enforcement stations across the country. Officials said customs enforcement operations were being consolidated into a coordinated nationwide system.
These measures aim to improve monitoring and strengthen action against illegal trade. The government is also seeking better coordination between enforcement teams operating at different locations.
Customs Authorities Seize Goods Worth Rs. 205 Million
Officials reported that the Indus Collectorate (Enforcement) seized goods worth approximately Rs. 205 million during its first three weeks of operations. The seizures resulted from 80 enforcement operations.
Authorities have deployed 865 personnel to cover 26 major routes. Their responsibilities include monitoring the movement of goods and supporting efforts against smuggling.
Officials also reported ongoing operations targeting smuggled textiles, vehicles, cigarettes, high-speed diesel, auto parts, and other products.
Meanwhile, the recruitment process for 280 goods appraisers has been completed. Their training is scheduled to take place in October and November 2026.
The recruitment and training initiative is expected to support customs operations and strengthen enforcement capacity.
Senior Government Officials Attend Meeting
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended the meeting alongside several federal ministers and senior officials.
The participants included Azam Nazeer Tarar, Musadik Malik, Ahsan Khan Cheema, Attaullah Tarar, and Shaza Fatima Khawaja. Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani was also present.
National Assembly members Usman Owaisi and Rana Iradat Sharif Khan attended the meeting as well.
The planned installation of smart scanners represents part of the government’s efforts to improve airport procedures. The initiative focuses on making baggage inspections more efficient while reducing unnecessary inconvenience for passengers.
In other related news also read Shehbaz Sharif Announces Rs. 100 Petrol Subsidy
At the same time, customs authorities are continuing efforts to curb smuggling and tax evasion. The government aims to improve enforcement while ensuring travelers receive respectful treatment at international airports.
