Lahore-Delhi 'Dosti' bus service resumed

LAHORE: Pakistan today resumed Lahore-Delhi 'Dosti' bus service, days after it was suspended indefinitely at India's request following violence and arson in Jat quota stir in Haryana.

The bus service, which was suspended on February 21, was resumed after clearance from India and about 21 passengers mostly Indians left for Delhi, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Manager Col (retired) Khalid said.

"We had been in touch with the Indian authorities that gave us go-ahead yesterday to resume the bus service today," he said, adding the department had facilitated the passengers especially Indians who were to leave for Delhi on last Monday.

The Samjhota Express train service which was also suspended due to the agitation will resume tomorrow.

"Since the agitation is over in India, the train service will also resume tomorrow," a Pakistan Railways official said.

Pakistan and Indian authorities had extended the visas of the passengers who were to leave for their destinations early this week by the Lahore-Delhi Dosti Bus Service and Samjhota Express.

The bus and train services between the two countries were suspended after the Jat agitators blocked major road and rail routes in Haryana for days, demanding quota under OBC.

At least 19 people were killed in the violent agitation.