Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district
TNR News Network
Shimla:
The Ministry of External Affairs has granted approval for resuming cross-border trade with China through the Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district, paving the way for commercial activity to restart from June next year.
The high-altitude pass, located in the Pooh subdivision, had remained closed for trade for several years.
Following the Centre’s clearance, the Kinnaur district administration has initiated groundwork to operationalise the trade route.
A preparatory meeting of the Shipki La Trade Authority was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Dr Amit Kumar Sharma, with participation from departments concerned and key stakeholders.
Road access, security and customs in focus
Officials deliberated on improving road connectivity in the Shipki La-Namgia stretch, strengthening security arrangements, ensuring customs infrastructure and putting in place medical and emergency response mechanisms. Inter-departmental coordination and procedural readiness were also reviewed to ensure smooth conduct of trade operations.
It was decided that trader registration and other mandatory formalities would be completed well in advance of the scheduled opening.
Only verified traders to get trade passes
The deputy commissioner said security at the trade point would be jointly managed by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the local police. The registration of traders will be carried out by the Pooh tehsildar and trade passes will be issued strictly to verified and approved applicants.
Applicants will be required to submit valid identity proof, domicile certificate, passport-size photographs and details of previous trading experience, wherever applicable.
Trade restricted to notified items
Authorities clarified that import and export through Shipki La will be limited to items notified by the Government of India. No non-notified goods will be allowed to cross the border in either direction.
The customs department will deploy adequate staff at the local customs station at Shipki La and widely circulate the list of approved trade items. All consignments will be subjected to strict checking at the border to ensure compliance with prescribed norms.
