Pakistan suspends Samjhauta Express; cites security reasons

Samjhauta Express, the train between India and Pakistan, has been suspended in what is seen as a move by Pakistan in reference to India’s stance on Kashmir. Earlier this week, India struck down Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir, giving it the status of a union territory and separating it from Ladakh.

Reportedly, Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express as a move of protest against India’s move in Jammu & Kashmir. In a confirmation by the Indian Railways, the train has been suspended at Wagah Border. The train service was started in 1976 as an initiative after the Simla Agreement. Its suspension has led to a number of stranded passengers.
A senior official from the Indian Railways stated that, “When we received the information from the Pakistani authorities at around 2:14 pm, we assured them that there are no security concerns and the train should come here. However, we also told them that if necessary an Indian crew and guard will escort the train to Attari.”

A recent development suggests that Pakistan has demanded India to send a crew to get the train back to India. It is reported but not confirmed that an Indian crew has will soon be reaching Attari with the train. The neighbouring country has cited security reasons behind its move to suspend Samjhauta Express.