Feel-good spills on to Srinagar-PoK road

He discussed the modalities for setting up a Customs office and reception centres on the highway. Union Minister of State for Defence Chaman Lal Gupta, who had come here to inaugurate a 30-metre bridge on the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, said India has no hindrance in opening the road. ‘‘We want to open the road. Now the ball lies in Pakistan’s court, if they cooperate the road can be opened as desired by people of the state,’’ said Gupta.

‘‘Even after the failure of Lahore and Agra summits, PM A.B. Vajpayee initiated a new peace process by visiting Pakistan during the SAARC summit. India has always shown sincerity in resolving all issues through peaceful means. Even the Hurriyat Conference has now realised that peace can be restored through negotiations,’’ he said.

Gupta said after the ceasefire, people in the Valley especially border residents have heaved in relief. ‘‘We are working for restoration of peace with dignity and security for our civilians,’’ he said.

At a public rally in Baramulla, Chief Minister Sayeed said the dreams of the divided families in the state would become a reality once the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road is opened.

‘‘I visited Uri today, along with the senior Custom officials. We discussed modalities of opening of Customs clearance centre and welcome place for the people desirous to travel on the road. If the neighbouring country will show good response and sincerity, the road will be thrown open after 56 years,’’ he said.

‘‘We have also mooted a plan to develop villages along the road, especially Salamabad where a reception centre will be set up for the people coming from across the border. The village will be developed into a model village,’’ said the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister.