Cross-LoC traders meet on Zero Point in Poonch to discuss problems

Traders from both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) Tuesday held a meeting at Chakan Da Bagh zero point on Poonch-Rawalakot road in in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district to review pace and progress of cross-border trade activities.

Besides 115 traders from both Indian and Pakistan sides, the meeting was attended by director general, trade and travel of Pakistan-administered Kashmir and the deputy commissioner Rawalakote from Pakistan-administered Kashmir, and deputy commissioner Poonch and other officers related with the cross-LoC trade.

The meeting was convened to facilitate the traders of both sides discussing their trade-related problems and disputes.

The traders represented that the list of items for the cross LoC trade be increased and trade be made need based instead of origin based as it is this time.

Trade custodian, cross-LoC trade, at Chakan Da Bagh, Bashir Ahmed Lone disclosed that there are 165 traders who are doing trade across the LoC from the Indian side while 171 traders are engaged from the other side.

As many as 73 labourers of border areas of Poonch are getting employment in trade centre Poonch in loading and unloading activities.

At present 25 loaded trucks cross from the Indian side every day on four trade days from Tuesday to Friday every week.

Bananas, tamarind, Jeera, red chillies, lemons and herbs are generally exported and dates, apples, herbs and almonds apart from embroidery items are imported from the Pakistan side.

Business worth Rs.5 crore from both sides takes place every week.