Indo-Pak thaw: More buses, fare hike

The agreement to run the bus services was signed on February 17, 1999, and is due to end next month. At the end of the first round of talks, the two sides agreed to recommend the renewal of the agreement for another five years. They will also recommend additional bus services be provided, and an upward revision of bus fares. At present, a Lahore to New Delhi ticket costs Rs 800. Officials plan to revise the fares to Rs 1,250 per ticket. ‘‘These are recommendations subjected to the approval of the two governments,’’ Indian officials said.

The revision in the fare structures have been suggested due to the increase in operational costs, officials said. Both sides also agreed to run additional bus services to meet the growing rush of passengers, pressing four buses to run four days a week. The renewed agreement’s signing ceremony is expected to take place in New Delhi in a few weeks.

Pakistan also reportedly proposed new stop overs on the Indian side at Amritsar, Kartarpur and Panipat, in addition to New Delhi. Indian officials suggested that since the two countries were poised to resume the Samjhauta Express train service between Lahore and Attari from January 15, those wishing to travel to Punjab could use the train services. Pakistan has also proposed to run bus services between Lahore and Amritsar. This issue is expected to be discussed separately.(PTI)