Dry run on July 4 before opening of Nathula pass

Gangtok, July 1: Dry run will be held at Nathu La on July 4, just two days before the actual reopening of the trade route on July 6, official sources said here today.

Sikkim Principal Secretary Commerce and Industries Karma Gyasto said here today the main objective of the dry run would ensure smooth operation after the opening of the trade route.

''The Nathula pass is reopening after 44 years. We do not want to see any lapses,'' he said. The trade route was closed in 1962 in the wake of the 1962 Sino-Indian conflict.

All exercises required to be conducted when actual trade starts would be done during the dry run.

Officials of departments like immigration, custom, police and army would be present during the dry run.

Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling would formally inaugurate the Sherathang mart developed for bilateral trade and open the Nathu La pass on July 6.

More than 600 delegates would be present at the border to witness the historic event.

UNI