The India-Myanmar border haat at Pangsau Pass in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district reopened on Thursday after remaining closed for six years, reviving an important cross-border trading point and raising hopes of renewed economic activity and stronger people-to-people ties between the two neighbouring countries.
The border haat was formally reopened by Arunachal Pradesh Trade and Commerce Minister Nyato Dukam, who called on local communities, traders and government agencies to work together to make cross-border trade a regular and sustainable part of the region’s economy.
Addressing the gathering, Dukam said trade and commerce play a vital role in strengthening the local economy and appealed to all stakeholders to actively participate in expanding commercial activities through the border market.
The minister also highlighted the historical and strategic importance of Pangsau Pass, describing it as an important gateway for trade and connectivity between India and Myanmar. Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the region, he said plans are in place to establish a land port at Nampong, which is expected to further enhance cross-border trade, transportation and economic development.
Officials said the reopening of the border haat is expected to create new livelihood opportunities for local residents, encourage small-scale trade, strengthen cultural exchanges and promote closer economic cooperation between communities living on both sides of the border. They added that the revival of the market could serve as a foundation for expanding commercial exchanges in the future.
The reopening ceremony was attended by several public representatives, senior government officials, security personnel and community leaders. Among those present were Nampong MLA Laisam Simai, Adviser to the Minister for Trade and Commerce Dr Mohesh Chai, Trade and Commerce Secretary Bullo Mamu, Trade and Commerce Director Toko Togur, Commandant of the 21 Assam Rifles Colonel Amit Mane, and Zilla Parishad Members from Nampong, Rima-Putok, Manmao and Jairampur.
A delegation from Myanmar also took part in the event. It included the Chairman of Pangsau town, representatives of the Myanmar Army and Myanmar Police, as well as members of the United Tangshang Committee and the local market committee, reflecting the shared interest of both sides in reviving cross-border trade and cooperation.