The installation of new scanning systems at the Islam Qala border crossing in western Afghanistan is underway as part of a project valued at nearly $10 million, officials in Herat province said.
The press office of the Herat governor said the project is aimed at strengthening the inspection and control of goods passing through the border and improving the technical capacity of the Islam Qala crossing.
The project also includes construction work at the site. According to the provincial authorities, brickwork on the administrative building has reached 48 percent, while the preparation of bricks for roof insulation has reached 64 percent.
Islam Qala is one of Afghanistan’s most important commercial border crossings with Iran. Located in Herat province near the Iranian border, the crossing serves as a major route for the movement of commercial goods between Afghanistan and Iran.
Hundreds of cargo and transit trucks travel through the crossing on a daily basis, transporting a wide range of goods between the two countries. The border crossing is therefore considered an important part of Afghanistan’s trade and supply network, particularly for western Afghanistan.
The installation of modern scanning equipment is expected to strengthen customs inspection procedures and improve the authorities’ ability to examine cargo without relying solely on traditional inspection methods. Such systems can also help facilitate the movement of legitimate commercial shipments while strengthening controls against the illegal movement of goods.
The Islam Qala crossing is also an important source of customs revenue for Afghanistan and plays a significant role in trade activity in Herat and other western provinces.
