Pakistan, India resume cross-LoC bus, truck service

Pakistan and India Monday resumed cross-border trade and bus service in Kashmir region after nearly two weeks of suspension over exchange of firing, which caused casualties on both sides.

The truck and bus service was suspended earlier this month after both countries accused each other of violation of the 2003 ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC), which divides the two countries in the disputed Kashmir region.

Interaction between the Pakistani and Indian military officials along the LoC after the escalations reduced tension and both sides also resumed cross-border movement of bus and trucks.

Radio Pakistan reported that both sides re-started the service at Chakandabagh check post in Poonch district.

According to the trade custodians on both sides of the border, the tension at the LoC has now decreased.

The trade and bus service were suspended for 17 days, which affected movement of Kashmiris on both sides of the LoC and trade activities.

Directors general of military operations on both sides had talked on telephone and discussed the issue, agreeing to de-escalate border tensions between the countries.

Poonch-Rawalakot bus service provider and trade custodian Lakshmana said that they have received a report from cross border hotline and the bus service and trade has restored from Monday morning.

Lakshmana said that total 217 passengers including 109 of the Indian-occupied and 108 of Azad Kashmir crossed the border.

Lakshmana said that eighty-five passengers of the Indian side of the LoC and sixty-eight of Pakistani side have already completed their 28 days stay.

The trade will be formally resumed from Tuesday onward. All the traders have been informed in this regard.

Pakistan had proposed UN investigation into the ceasefire violations however India had rejected the suggestion.

Short URL: https://www.newspakistan.pk/?p=37738

Posted by Tahir Khan on Jan 28 2013. Filed under Latest News, National, Pakistan, South Asia. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.