‘Dosti’ bus service between India, Pakistan resumed

With India and Pakistan seeking a way forward to continue the bilateral dialogue, Pakistan has decided to resume the Lahore-Delhi ‘Dosti’ bus service, days after it was suspended indefinitely at India’s request following violence and arson in the ongoing Jat quota stir in Haryana. The dialogue between the two countries hit a roadblock after the Pathankot terror attacks on January 2. By agreeing to resume the bus service in these uncertain times, it indicates Pakistan’s intent to continue dialogue process with India.

The bus service between Lahore and Delhi was suspended on February 21. It resumed after clearance from India. Around 21 passengers, mostly Indians, left for Delhi, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Manager Col (retired) Khalid said. “We had been in touch with the Indian authorities who gave us the go-ahead yesterday [Tuesday] to resume the bus service today,” he added. “The department had facilitated the passengers, especially Indians, who were to leave for Delhi on February 22”, Mr Khalid said.

Pakistan has also decided to resume the Samjhauta train service from Thursday. The train and bus services were disrupted between both the countries due to the agitation in India. The two countries had extended visas for passengers who were held up as the services were disrupted.

As the tensions between both countries continue to simmer in the backdrop of increased Pakistan sponsored terror attacks on Indian soil, the fate of resuming the stalled dialogue process remains uncertain despite both countries agreeing to hold talks in the “near future”.

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