Pahalgam Attack Aftermath: India has dealt a significant economic setback to Pakistan following a tragic terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam that resulted in 28 fatalities. The Indian authorities have declared the immediate shutdown of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) located at Attari. This action was determined by the Cabinet Committee on Security and was reported by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday.
Vikram Misri stated, “Individuals who have crossed the border with valid permits can return through this route until May 1, 2025,” emphasizing that the route will only be available for returnees for a limited period.
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Attari, found 28 kilometers from Amritsar, is India’s first land port and the only sanctioned land corridor for trading with Pakistan. Covering 120 acres and directly linked to National Highway-1, this check post has been vital for cross-border trade, especially for imports from Afghanistan.
There have been significant variations in both trade and passenger traffic at the Attari-Wagah corridor. During the fiscal year 2023-24, the land port documented trade amounting to ₹3,886.53 crore, alongside 6,871 cargo movements and 71,563 passenger crossings.
The Attari Land Port has historically been an essential trade link between India and Pakistan, facilitating the exchange of various goods. This route facilitates significant Indian exports, including soybeans, feed for chickens, assorted vegetables, red chilies, plastic granules, and plastic yarn.
Conversely, imports from Pakistan and other regions mainly consist of dry fruits, dates, gypsum, cement, glass, rock salt, and various herbs. The decision to close this port is expected to have a profound effect on the movement of these items, especially for small traders and manufacturers who rely heavily on cross-border transactions.
However, trade volumes have generally decreased since 2018-19, reflecting ongoing tensions and disruptions in relations. The growing discord between India and Pakistan is expected to put additional pressure on their already fragile trading partnership. This decision is expected to adversely affect small traders and industries that rely on these everyday items for their livelihoods.
Additionally, imports from Afghanistan into India, many of which transit through Pakistan via this route, may also encounter logistical difficulties.
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