Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an on-site inspection of the upcoming modern Land Port project in Banbasa, Champawat, being developed by the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) at an estimated cost of ₹500 crore. The Chief Minister said that the project would play a pivotal role in strengthening India-Nepal trade relations and fostering the economic development of Uttarakhand’s border regions.
Our correspondent reports that during his visit to the Gudmi area of Banbasa, Chief Minister Dhami was briefed on the project’s progress and future milestones. He stated that the Land Ports Authority of India, in collaboration with the Uttarakhand government, is expediting the implementation of this ambitious initiative. All necessary formalities including environmental clearance, compensatory afforestation, and land transfer have already been completed.
The Chief Minister informed that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has granted final approval for 84 acres of forest land, paving the way for construction work to move forward. He said that the land port, once operational, will provide an integrated and secure system for trade and passenger movement between India and Nepal.
Our correspondent adds that the modern complex will bring together all key agencies including customs, immigration, trade, and security under one roof. Dhami said that this will make border management faster, more efficient, and transparent, while simultaneously boosting regional commerce.
“The Banbasa Land Port is not merely an infrastructure project but a transformative step for the border economy,” the Chief Minister said. He explained that the project will open up direct market access for farmers and small producers, helping them sell their goods across the border at competitive rates. This, he added, will reduce transportation costs, encourage value addition, and enhance local incomes.
Dhami further stated that the project will create new employment and business opportunities for youth in Champawat and adjoining areas, while improving trade logistics and connectivity. Strategically located on the Indo-Nepal border, Banbasa will emerge as an important gateway for agriculture, industry, and tourism in Uttarakhand.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Government of India’s regional integration policy and its vision of secure and sustainable border development. He said that the LPAI has also launched a design competition to create an eco-friendly model that reflects both modern infrastructure and environmental balance.
Dhami called for close coordination among all departments and agencies to ensure timely completion of the project. He said that the Banbasa Land Port will serve as a symbol of prosperity, cooperation, and opportunity for Uttarakhand’s border regions, while further strengthening India-Nepal ties through trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
