Hustle at Attari Border as Citizens Cross Back Home

Attari, April 24 (NationPress) The Attari border in Punjab’s Amritsar district saw a flurry of activity on Thursday as travelers from both India and Pakistan made their way back to their respective nations following New Delhi's announcement of travel restrictions in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

While many Indians returning from Pakistan shared their joy over the safe conclusion of their visits, there were others—both Indians and Pakistanis—who expressed disappointment at being compelled to change their plans for visiting family across the border.

Speaking with IANS, a traveler from Dera Bassi who returned to India on Thursday afternoon stated, “Last night, I learned about the Indian government’s stringent measures and the advisory for citizens to return. Consequently, I hastily packed my belongings and left this morning.”

The Punjab resident explained that he had traveled to Pakistan on a one-month visa to see his relatives but had to cut his trip short to just 20 days due to the diplomatic situation.

Another Indian, Amreek Kaur, who returned from Pakistan, mentioned that she had a productive visit to Dera Baba Nanak. “Our trip concluded, so we returned,” she commented, noting that she did not sense any animosity or tension during her stay.

Sajid Khan, a Pakistani national, also arrived at the Attari border on his way back to Pakistan. “I have been in Ahmedabad for the past 10-12 days visiting relatives. Now, I will cross the border today or tomorrow,” he said, indicating the ongoing diplomatic disputes.

Nisar Ahmed, an Indian from Gujarat, expressed his shock when informed by people in Amritsar that he could not attend his niece’s wedding in Karachi on April 28.

“I am yet to meet officials, but the news about travel restrictions suggests that I cannot go to Pakistan despite holding a valid 30-day visa. I will head back home if I am denied the opportunity to go to Karachi,” he remarked, emphasizing that he respects the government's decision.

Tuesday’s Pahalgam terror attack, which is believed to have been carried out by the Pakistan-based terror organization The Resistance Front, resulted in 26 tourists losing their lives and many others sustaining injuries.

In response to the escalating diplomatic tensions, India announced the immediate closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, an essential land route between the two countries. Pakistani nationals currently in India with valid travel documents have been instructed to return home via the ICP by May 1, 2025. After this deadline, all overland travel between the nations will be suspended indefinitely.