Goodbyes at the Gate: Pakistani Tourists Flock Home as Attari-Wagah Border Locks Down

Image Source: News18

A wave of emotion and urgency washed over the Attari-Wagah border this Friday as dozens of Pakistani tourists and visitors rushed to leave India, following the government's drastic steps after the horrific Pahalgam terror attack this week that took 26 lives.

Key Highlights:

Sudden Border Closure: In a stunning diplomatic gesture, India closed the Attari-Wagah border and canceled all visas for Pakistani citizens, leaving them with just 48 hours to leave the country. Medical visas are valid until April 29, but all other travel permits have been canceled.
Emotional Goodbyes: Families, students, and patients—many surprised—were found waiting nervously at the Attari Integrated Check Post. Tears and requests for explanation were heard as travelers spoke of interrupted itineraries and personal sacrifices. "We had a 45-day visa but are now compelled to leave early. This is heartbreaking," lamented one Pakistani visitor.
Strict Security: Border Security Force officials carried out strict passport and vehicle inspections, permitting only individuals with valid documents to pass through. The mood was tense, with several personnel showing concern about the sudden nature of the order.
Diplomatic Fallout: Off the border, India threw out Pakistani diplomats, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and downgraded bilateral relations. The closure also ends the legendary border ceremony and further isolates people-to-people contact.
Human Accounts: Most tourists expressed pain, reiterating their innocence and the agony of being caught up in geopolitical turmoil. "I am guilty for the attack, but where is the fault of ordinary people?" a departing tourist inquired, reflecting the common feeling of despair and sadness.
The Attari-Wagah border, where once the cross-border bonhomie was celebrated, is today an eerie reminder of the tenuous relationship between the two countries—leaving common folk to suffer the consequence of the extraordinary.

Source: India Today, NDTV, Times of India

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