Border sealed, trade halted ahead of Phase II of polls
The Statesman | 29 April 2026
With the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections scheduled for Wednesday, authorities have intensified efforts to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful polling process across 142 constituencies in seven districts of south Bengal.
In a significant security measure, the India-Bangladesh border has been sealed, leading to a complete suspension of cross-border trade. At Petrapole Land Port, one of the busiest land ports between India and Bangladesh, all commercial activities, including shops and currency exchange counters, remained shut from Tuesday morning. Officials confirmed that the suspension of trade will continue till Wednesday night. Sources at the port indicated that cross-border movement had already declined in recent weeks following unrest in Bangladesh. While a limited number of Bangladeshi nationals had travelled to India, primarily for medical treatment in Kolkata, many of them have now returned ahead of polling day.
Similarly, residents of West Bengal who had travelled to Bangladesh for various purposes, are also returning in large numbers to participate in the election. A resident from Jessore, who arrived at Petrapole early Tuesday, said he had been in Kolkata for treatment but was returning home due to the elections. On the other hand, a resident of Madhyamgram, who had travelled to Chattogram in Bangladesh said he rushed back to ensure he could cast his vote. The usually bustling Petrapole border wore a deserted look, with business activities coming to a standstill, giving the area the appearance of a shutdown. According to Kartik Chakraborty, secretary of the Petrapole Clearing and Forwarding Agents’ Association, trade between India and Bangladesh has remained suspended since 26 April as part of heightened security arrangements.
Meanwhile, the influx of migrant workers returning to West Bengal to vote has put additional pressure on transport systems. With train tickets in short supply, many workers employed in states like Kerala have opted for long-distance bus journeys. Private bus operators reported increased demand, with passengers arriving in Kolkata at terminals such as Esplanade and Babughat. Air travel has also seen a spike, as several voters chose flights over uncertain train bookings to ensure timely return ahead of polling. The Election Commission remains on high alert, with enhanced deployment of security forces across sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents during the crucial phase.