Pakistan Stops Samjhauta Express at Border; Indian Crew Springs into Action!

Samjhauta Express, the only train that runs across India-Pakistan border, was stopped by Pakistan authorities from entering India at Wagah earlier today citing security reasons. The train, with around 110 passengers, was later escorted by an Indian crew and guard to Attari. On the Indian side, 70 passengers are waiting to cross over to Pakistan.

This comes a day after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan expelled India’s high commissioner Ajay Bisari and suspended all bilateral trade with India as a sign of protest against India’s move in revoking Articles 370 and 35A. Pakistan’s federal railways minister Sheikh Rashid also told to Media in Islamabad that Samjhauta train service with India will be closed.

However, Indian Railway officials say that the service will continue with a few changes. “The train has not been suspended. It will run. Pakistan authorities have raised some concerns with regards to security for crew and guard of the Samjhauta Express. We have told them that the situation is normal on this side,” Northern Railway spokesperson Deepak Kumar was quoted as saying by TOI.

He further said that, henceforth, the Samjhauta Express from both Lahore and Delhi will arrive at Attari after which Delhi-bound passengers will shift to an Indian train and Lahore-bound passengers will board a Pakistani train.