LAHORE: Following heightened tensions between Pakistan and India after the Pahalgam attack, cross-border travel has been severely disrupted, forcing many citizens to cut short their visits and return home abruptly.
Multiple Pakistani families were turned back at the Wagah border after India cancelled their visas, while 105 Indian nationals in Pakistan also returned home.
Among those affected was a Sikh family from India attending a wedding in Pakistan. Though the ceremony was held, they left early, unable to complete the traditional rituals.
On Thursday, 28 Pakistanis returned from India, while many others were denied entry or asked to leave within days. India has instructed Pakistani nationals on general visas to exit by May 1 and given SAARC visa holders only 48 hours.
A Hindu family from Sibi, Balochistan, was among those refused entry while traveling to Indore for a family wedding. “We found out the border was sealed after reaching Wagah,” said Akshay Kumar, who added they would now stay overnight at Dera Sahib in Lahore.
Another case involved a Hindu family from Ghotki, Sindh, residing in New Delhi on No Objection Return to India (NORI) visas. On a visit to Pakistan to meet relatives and perform religious rites, they are now being denied re-entry into India.
Indira, a family member, said their group of five holds valid Pakistani passports and NORI visas, but current restrictions have left them uncertain about returning to their home in India.
The escalating situation has placed strain on families with ties across the border, with the Wagah-Attari closure halting movement and communication.
In addition, India’s Border Security Force has suspended joint activities with Pakistan Rangers at several checkpoints, including the Wagah border, citing security concerns after the Pahalgam incident.
The traditional daily flag-lowering ceremony at Wagah, Ganda Singh, Hussainiwala, and Head Sulemanki has also been curtailed, reducing opportunities for cultural exchange and public engagement.
