TURA, Sept 11 – Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma has indicated that the economy of the State, particularly the border areas of Garo Hills, would soon see sweeping changes to its economic growth once the border haats begin functioning from next month onwards.
He said that the government has taken the initiative to begin international trade with Bangladesh through the border haats and the first to be inaugurated would be at Kalaichar in West Garo Hills and Balat in Khasi Hills as early as October next.
Disclosing this during the foundation stone laying ceremony of Land Customs Station facilitating legal trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh through the Garo Hills border at Killapara, Dalu under West Garo Hills district, Dr Mukul Sangma said international trade is of importance for both countries to develop the economy because the quantum of business generated by Land Customs Stations are enormous.
“It is necessary to derive maximum benefit and we are looking at a much more expanded trade with Bangladesh and through the Land Customs Station. “I urge the people of the region to diversify trade and commerce,” said the Chief Minister.
He added that the region has potential as a commercial hub and so it was deemed fit that Dalu and its adjoining areas have Land Custom Station and they develop into a full-fledged economic zone.
The Commissioner and Secretary for Commerce and Industries, A Som informed that the Government of India recognising the potential of trade and commerce through the border sector of Garo Hills has decided to sanction Rs 12 crore for Dalu and Rs 6 crore for Gasuapara in South Garo Hills for the establishment of Land Customs Stations to boost trade and uplift the border populace.
He also spoke at length about the problem of cattle lifting in the border areas and said the functioning of the Land Custom Stations would lead to facilitation of legal trade and doing away with cattle smuggling and other nefarious activities.
Writ Petition: The Garo Students Union has filed a writ petition in the Gauhati High Court questioning the authority of the municipality and conduct of civic polls in Garo Hills that is scheduled to take place in four municipal boards on September 29.
A petition to the Meghalaya Governor R S Mooshahary has also been submitted by the Joint Action Committee seeking to defer the polls until the High Court clarifies the status and existence of municipalities in Garo Hills.
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