Khunjerab Pass achieves milestone with year-round operation

RAWALPINDI: The trade activity between Pakistan, China and Central Asian States through Khunjerab Pass, which previously used to close for traffic for five months of winter season due to the heavy snowfall, would now continue for the whole year.

“The landmark achievement to open the Khunjerab Pass for trade between Pakistan, China and Central Asian States during the winter season has been achieved for the first time in 77 years,” sources said.

Located at a height of nearly 16,000 feet above sea level, Khunjerab Pass links Gilgit-Baltistan with China and is part of CPEC.

Some hectic trade activity takes place via Khunjerab Pass for transportation of machinery, textile, electronic goods, food items and items and such activity is highly important for progress of neighbourly countries.

In previous years, Pakistan also used this corridor and pass for transportation of industrial and agricultural goods to Central Asian States particularly Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.

Officials mentioned trade activity via Khunjerab pass for the whole year would further strengthen trade relations of Pakistan with other countries of the region.

Previously, this Pass had to be closed from December to March due to heavy snowfall. In order to remove hurdles in year-long trade activity, Pakistan and China at the third Belt and Road Forum in 2023 reached an understanding to intensify efforts keep Khunjerab Pass during the winter season too.

It was also decided that the two countries would take necessary measures for raising basic infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted trade.

In view of the decision, the National Logistic Corporation (NLC) has taken some comprehensive measures which also include installation of central heating system for officials and trader and provision of other required facilities.