A day after triggering widespread concern by refusing to accept its own citizens stranded in India, Pakistan on Friday, May 2, reopened the Attari-Wagah border crossing, permitting the return of dozens of its nationals.
The move came after a brief standoff at the border on Thursday, May 1, during which over three dozen Pakistani nationals were left in limbo despite India’s willingness to facilitate their exit. Many had gathered at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Attari, only to find the gates on the Pakistani side firmly shut.
According to sources cited by News18, Indian authorities had made arrangements for the smooth passage of Pakistani citizens holding valid documents. However, Islamabad reportedly did not open its side of the crossing, stranding families, including children and the elderly, in extreme conditions. There was no official explanation from Pakistan regarding the denial of entry at the time.
The Attari-Wagah crossing had seen heightened movement in the week leading up to the closure, following India's directive for Pakistani nationals on short-term visas to leave the country in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people.
Resumption Brings Relief
Friday’s reopening of the gates brought relief to those stuck at the border, some of whom had spent the previous night uncertain about when, or if, they would be allowed to return. The crossing was reopened without a formal announcement from Islamabad, even as the Indian side maintained its policy of allowing exit with valid clearance.
While cross-border travel has resumed, diplomatic tensions remain elevated. There has been no official comment from Pakistan on the previous day’s closure or the reasons behind it.
