Late deal on LoC relief centres comes through

A joint statement issued at the end of the talks late at night here said that Pakistan had expressed its appreciation for the assistance provided by India for the earthquake victims.

‘‘It was agreed that because of non-availability ofor damage to infrastructure on these points, crossings across the LoC would be permitted on foot. The parameters and procedures as already agreed upon between the two sides being used for the Muzaffarabad-Srinagar bus service would be used for the above additional crossings and both will endeavour to expedite the clearance process preferably within ten days,’’ the statement said.

It was further agreed that priority for crossings would be accorded to members of divided families on either side of LoC.

“For relief, rehabilitation and reconstructionpurposes, it was agreed that with prior information and acceptance and depending on feasibility, relief items can be sent in either direction and handed-over to local authorities on the afore mentioned crossing points,” the statement said. The two sides agree to operationalise the arrangementson 7 November as a humanitarian measure.