Type: Parliament Questions and Answers

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government has any proposal to set up a hotline between Attari (India) and Wagah (Pakistan) railway stations;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is also proposed to solve the problems in passenger movement and border trade between India and Pakistan;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SMT. PRENEET KAUR)
(a) & (b) In the first meeting of the Customs Liaison Border Committee between India and Pakistan in June 2011, it was agreed to establish a hotline between Deputy/Assistant Commissioner of Land Customs Station, Attari Rail (India) and Deputy/Assistant Commissioner Land Customs Station, Wagha (Pakistan) for frequent communication of day to day problems, if any, being faced by international passengers traveling by Samjhauta Express train and problems, if any, with respect the interchange of goods train.

(c) & (d) Government has approved the development of Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, Punjab, on India Pakistan border to solve the problems in passenger movement and border trade between India and Pakistan. ICP, Attari is envisaged to provide all the facilities to enable smooth cross border movement of individuals, vehicles and goods under an integrated complex. These arrangements would facilitate the processes of immigration, customs, security, quarantine etc.

(e) Does not arise.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220218775

Pakistan
South Asia