India closes Attari border after Pahalgam attack, Pakistan faces trade losses worth crores

In a stern move following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, India has announced the immediate closure of the Attari Integrated Check Post (ICP), the only land route facilitating trade with Pakistan. The decision, taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security, is aimed at safeguarding national interests amid rising tensions with Pakistan.

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As per government directives, Indians who crossed into Pakistan must return by May 1, 2025, while visiting Pakistanis have been asked to leave India at the earliest. The closure of the Attari-Wagah corridor is expected to significantly disrupt cross-border trade, which stood at ₹3,886.53 crore in 2023–24.

The Attari border, located just 28 km from Amritsar and spread across 120 acres, serves as India’s first land port and a vital trade artery for goods such as soyabeans, poultry feed, vegetables, red chillies, plastic granules, and plastic thread. In return, India imports dry fruits, rock salt, gypsum, cement, and herbs from Pakistan.

The ripple effect of the closure is expected to hit small traders the hardest, particularly those dealing in daily essentials. Additionally, experts warn of a possible setback to imports from Afghanistan, as Attari also serves as a key route for Afghan goods.

This move marks a major blow to India-Pakistan economic ties, already strained by political tensions and security concerns.