The Hindu : National : Opening of Srinagar-Muzaffarabad route a landmark: Azad

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Jul 02, 2006

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Opening of Srinagar-Muzaffarabad route a landmark: Azad

Shujaat Bukhari

Says it will strengthen the economy of both Indian and Pakistan

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Saturday said the opening of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad trade route should prove a landmark in the economic history of the State.

Mr. Azad visited the truck terminal, customs and immigration sites at Salamabad, Uri. About 50 kanals of land had been earmarked for the purpose. He said the good landscape could be used to construct buildings to accommodate passengers. The truck terminal should be of high standard. It should be able to cater to the continuous flow of goods-laden trucks from either side of the Line of Control. It should be equipped with X-ray facilities, godowns, weighbridge, residential accommodation and office complex for immigration and custom staff, besides healthcare and communication facilities.

Mr. Azad said it was only as a result of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's personal interest that trade was getting a boost in the State. The agreement between India and Pakistan to carry trade through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road had been appreciated throughout the world. "It will not only strengthen the economy of the two countries but will change the overall economical scenario in the State. Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Kashmir, has heavily suffered during the last 18 years and hoped that the successful conduct of trade through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road will change the over all scenario."

At a meeting, India and Pakistan decided that representatives of the Chambers of Commerce from Jammu and Kashmir and PoK would work out modalities of the trade. About six months ago, a list of over 70 tradesmen was forwarded to Pakistan authorities for clearance, which was still awaited. The arrangement was that a group of tradesmen and businessmen would first come from PoK. However, no group had come so far and neither have their names been received.

Mr. Azad hoped that the matter would be expedited. "Our fruits, handicrafts, shawls, saffron, etc., have world market and tradesmen are eager to export the same through this route."

In order to make the trade relationship successful, all must work together towards creating a peaceful atmosphere. However, reports during the last three months indicated that infiltration bids by armed militants were increasing. Mr. Azad hoped that Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf would keep his commitment and would not allow the same to continue.

" The time has come for elements of terror to close shop and allow the people living on both sides of the LoC to achieve the goal of prosperity through trade and commerce." All endeavours would be made to strengthen the forces of peace.

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