New Delhi : The Delhi Akali chief, Paramjit Singh Sarna, underscored the critical importance of reopening the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, established in 2012, to reignite business routes and boost Punjab’s beleaguered economy.
Expressing the urgency, the Panthak leader highlighted the economic challenges faced by local businesses in Punjab since 2019, emphasizing that trade has been in suspension since the Pulwama attack.
Welcoming Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal’s push for resuming bilateral commerce through Punjab’s rail and road routes, Sarna stated, “There’s a pressing need to restart trade.”
India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, he noted, annually engaged in over ₹8,000 crore worth of business since 2012, following the inauguration of the ICP’s modern port.
Observing Amritsar’s strategic location with three international gateways – road, rail, and air connectivity – the Delhi Akali chief emphasized the immense potential for trade through roads connecting Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and extending to Central Asian countries.
Recalling the ICP’s primary aim to connect India not only to its western neighbours but also to high trading areas like Iran, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and beyond, Sarna said, “If all these links – air, road, and rail – are explored, it could trigger and rejuvenate the economy, not only for Punjab but for the entire country.”
He advocated for not only the reopening of the Attari-Wagah border but also urged for bilateral trade through the Hussainiwala border, located 11 km from Ferozepur.
“Throwing open both borders would be a significant stride towards fostering economic growth and collaboration between India and Pakistan, ” Sarna said.
