Facilities, expanded list for cross LoC trade discussed

There is an urgent need to provide banking facilities, ISD connectivity and expansion of the trading list to sustain the cross-LoC (Line of Control) trade between Indian and Pakistani-administered Kashmir, said officials at a high-level meeting here.

The meeting was held to review and discuss the issues related to cross LoC trade.

Discussing various demands and problems faced by the traders associated with the cross LoC trade at Salamabad, Baramulla and Chakan da Bagh, Poonch, it was felt that there is an urgent need for further augmentation and streamlining of the cross LoC trade.

It was agreed that the additional items to be included for trade will be forwarded by the industries and commerce department to the union home ministry for its inclusion in the agreed list of items in the SOP.

Regarding banking facilities, union home ministry's joint secretary, in charge Jammu and Kashmir, R.K. Srivastava told the meeting that the matter has already been taken up with the Pakistan government and the ministry will pursue the matter with them vigorously.

The provision of ISD facilities to the senior officers dealing with the cross LoC trade and the designated heads of traders association was also agreed to.

The meeting was informed that the tendering process for purchase of full body truck scanners has been completed and a team of experts will be sent soon to identify the location and advice on the preparatory work before installation.

During the meetingm enhancement of cash amount to be carried by the passengers travelling across to Pakistan administered part was also agreed to and a proposal to this effect will be submitted by the state home department to the union home ministry for approval.

Opening of additional trade routes, issuance of visa permits and maintenance of balance sheet for goods traded across LoC from both sides were also discussed in the meeting.

The meeting was also attended by state's Financial Commissioner, industries and commerce, Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, state's Principal Secretary, home, Suresh Kumar, Inspector General of Police, CID, B. Srinivas, union home ministry's Deputy Secretary Sulekha besides officers of the local Jammu and Kashmir Bank and BSNL.