ISLAMABAD, Aug 12: The maiden consignment of potato from India arrived through Wagah border, after clearance by the quarantine department declaring it free from virus. With the advent of trade between Pakistan and India through land route, Indian garlic had reached here through Wagah. And it has been followed by 600 bags of potatoes, which were booked by Hafiz Abdul Majeed and Mohammad Mushtaque, traders from Sukkur, private TV channel reported.

They said overall orders for 1000 tons potatoes were placed.

Mohammad Mushtaque said that the import of vegetables from India would make them available to the people at cheaper rates.

He said he had purchased potatoes at Rs14 per kilo and it would be his endeavour to sell it taking minimum profit. He opposed quarantine policy saying that there was no laboratory at Wagah border or any storage facility.

Quarantine Department’s in-charge, Mohammad Safdar said that potatoes on initial examination were found free from any disease or virus. However, these would be later further checked in laboratory, he said.—APP