Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Inspects ₹500-Crore Modern Land Port Project Site at Gudmi, Banbasa in Champawat District

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday conducted a site inspection of the upcoming modern Land Port project at Gudmi area, Banbasa, in Champawat district, 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 crucial role in strengthening cooperation, trade, and development in the border areas between India and Nepal. He informed that the Government of India’s Land Ports Authority of India, with the active support of the Government of Uttarakhand, is expediting this ambitious project.

Environmental Clearances and Progress

Dhami mentioned that since the project’s inception, all formalities related to environmental clearance, compensatory afforestation, and land transfer have been systematically completed. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change granted final approval for approximately 84 acres of forest land, paving the way for the commencement of construction.

A Modern Hub for Trade and Connectivity

The Chief Minister said that the upcoming ₹500-crore modern Land Port will establish an integrated, convenient, and secure system for trade and passenger movement between India and Nepal. All key agencies related to customs, security, trade, and border management will operate within a single complex, ensuring faster, more transparent, and efficient border operations.

Dhami emphasized that the project is not limited to infrastructure development alone—it will serve as a catalyst for transforming the economic landscape of the border region.

Boost to Cross-Border Trade and Employment

Strategically located, the Banbasa Land Port will enhance cross-border trade, creating a formal entry point for agricultural and industrial goods while generating new employment opportunities for local youth.

The Chief Minister said that through this Land Port, farmers and small producers will gain direct access to cross-border markets, reducing transportation costs and enabling value addition to their products.

He added that the project will further strengthen India–Nepal relations, promoting tourism, cultural exchange, and mutual cooperation.

Sustainable Development and Design Innovation

Dhami stated that the initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision of regional integration and its policy of safe and sustainable border development.

He informed that the LPAI is conducting a design competition to develop an eco-friendly model that balances modern infrastructure with environmental preservation.

The Chief Minister directed all departments and agencies of the Central and State Governments to work in close coordination to ensure timely completion of the project.

Concluding his remarks, Dhami said, “The Banbasa Land Port project will redefine Uttarakhand’s border identity—symbolizing prosperity, cooperation, and new opportunities.”

(Source: Department of Information and Public Relations)