New Delhi, April 27 (IANS) Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess progress on strengthening trade and infrastructure in Uttarakhand’s border areas, with a particular focus on connectivity along the India-Nepal frontier.
The meeting was held at Uttarakhand Sadan in New Delhi, where the Chief Minister interacted with Jayant Singh, Chairman of the Land Ports Authority of India, along with other senior officials.
During the discussion, CM Dhami reviewed the progress of the under-construction modern land port project at Banbasa in Champawat district, located on the India-Nepal border. The project is being developed as a key infrastructure initiative aimed at boosting cross-border trade and enhancing international connectivity.
Officials informed that the land port is expected to be integrated with the Asian Highway network, which will significantly improve regional logistics and mobility.
The Chief Minister also held detailed deliberations on improving trade, transportation, and infrastructure facilities in border regions such as Dharchula and Jhulaghat in Pithoragarh district. These areas are strategically important due to their proximity to Nepal and their potential to emerge as active trade corridors.
Emphasising the importance of balanced regional development, Dhami said that infrastructure projects in border areas should be executed by prioritising local needs and public interest. He noted that such efforts would not only improve connectivity but also promote local products by providing better access to markets.
”The strengthening of border infrastructure will play a crucial role in boosting the local economy. It will generate employment opportunities and improve ease of movement for residents in these remote regions,” the Chief Minister said during the meeting.
He further directed the Land Ports Authority of India to ensure that all ongoing development works aimed at facilitating local residents are completed in a timely and systematic manner. He stressed the need for coordination among agencies to avoid delays and ensure that projects meet quality standards.
Officials said that the state government is actively working towards enhancing trade linkages and infrastructure in border areas, recognising their importance in both economic development and strategic connectivity.
The review meeting underlined the Uttarakhand government’s continued focus on transforming border regions into hubs of economic activity while ensuring sustainable development and improved living standards for local communities.
–IANS
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