The e-gate system for passengers with electronic passports will open at airports within days, with full operations expected by December, Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said today.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the Core Committee on Law and Order at the Secretariat, he said installation had been completed in most locations. "Within a few days, e-passport holders will be able to pass through automatically," he added.

The meeting prioritised discussions on ensuring better services for Bangladeshi expatriates. Jahangir announced that the government had decided to reduce passport fees for migrant workers, calling them "remittance warriors."

"We are trying to ensure they get better treatment both on flights and at airports," he added.

On the possibility of lowering airfares, he said, "Biman operates in a competitive market. If fares can be reduced without hurting its profitability, it will be considered."

The adviser said the meeting also reviewed security and preparations for the upcoming national polls, with emphasis on police training. "Our officers are being trained to conduct elections efficiently. There is no doubt about their capability. The IGP has already said that the force is ready, and I fully support that," he said.

Asked about the police chief's reported warning that delaying the election could put the country at risk, Jahangir replied, "If the IGP said that, I support it. There is no shortage of risks in Bangladesh, which is why we must remain alert."

Referring to recent fire incidents, including the blaze at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, he said several committees had been formed to investigate.

Jahangir also discussed progress in procuring body cameras for police officers, confirming that Tk 400 crore had been allocated for the project. "It's not something we can buy immediately. The finance committee has reviewed the allocation, and once the price negotiations are complete, the purchase will proceed," he said.