Rs 5 billion land port to boost India–Nepal trade in Uttarakhand

During his visit, the Chief Minister inspected the site and instructed officials to ensure timely and coordinated implementation of construction works. He said the upcoming port would integrate key border and trade-related services under one system to improve efficiency and facilitate smoother cross-border movement.

Planned as a modern border transit hub, the Banbasa Land Port will house customs, immigration, security, and trade facilitation agencies within a single complex. Officials said this integrated setup will help reduce processing times, increase transparency, and support faster movement of goods and passengers.

Dhami described the project as a crucial step toward strengthening infrastructure along the India–Nepal border. “Once operational, it will enable coordinated management of trade and passenger movement through a unified administrative and logistics framework,” he said.

Officials confirmed that all necessary clearances, including environmental and land-use approvals, have been obtained to begin construction. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change approved the transfer of around 84 acres of forest land for the project, with compensatory afforestation measures now underway.

The Chief Minister added that the state government has been working closely with the LPAI to facilitate the project. “All procedural requirements, from environmental clearances to land transfer, have been completed in coordination with central agencies,” he noted.

The Banbasa Land Port is expected to stimulate regional trade and create jobs in logistics, warehousing, customs services, and transport. Its strategic location will also improve market access for local producers, including farmers and small-scale manufacturers.

“The project will help streamline trade in agricultural produce and small industrial goods while supporting livelihoods in the Champawat region,” Dhami said.

Beyond trade, the facility is expected to improve connectivity, tourism, and cultural exchange between India and Nepal, providing a more organised and efficient cross-border travel experience.