Four alternative routes planned

BD Kasniyal

Pithoragarh May 3

In the wake of bad weather conditions, it has been decided to develop alternative trek routes for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra beginning from June 12. The routes will be developed from Pangla to Sirklha, Ghatiabagar to Gala, Garbadhar to Bidrakoti and Sirkha to Gala.

This was decided at a meeting held at the Pithoragarh District Magistrate’s office here today to discuss preparations for the yatra. The meeting was attended by administrative and BRO officials, ITBP personnel and representatives of the KMVN, the nodal agency for the yatra.

It was informed at the meeting that a recently formed glacier near the Malpa camp is a major challenge en route the yatra this year. It has blocked the traditional route to the Bundi camp from Malpa and needs to be removed before May 15.

“There is a huge deposition of snow on the route leading to Gunji, Kalapani and Lipulekh Pass. Public Works Department (PWD) and BRO officials have been directed to send a daily report on the issue so that all hurdles are removed before May 15,” said Pithoragarh District Magistrate Susheel Kumar.

400 traders to take part in India-China trade

Meanwhile, nearly 400 tribal traders will participate in the border trade between India and China from Lipulekh pass in Pithoragarh beginning from June 1.

While 100 trade passes are available with the district administration, 300 passes will be sought from the Ministry of External Affairs, which runs the trade.

Pithoragarh District Magistrate Shusheel Kumar said the trade would take place from June 1 to October 15. However, if poor weather hampered the proceedings, the time period could be extended till October 30.

“We have appointed the Dharchula SDM as trade officer. A veterinary doctor and a Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) official will be appointed as assistant trade officers soon,” said the DM.