BSF, Rangers discuss opening of Suchetgarh route in Jammu

Amir Karim Tantray

Tribune News Service

Jammu, August 2

The Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan Rangers are mulling ways to reach a common agreement over the opening of the Suchetgarh route on the international border on the pattern of the Wagah-Attari border.

Though the idea is still in infancy stage, it is being seen as a part of confidence-building measures (CBMs) between India and Pakistan.

This issue came up for discussion at the DG-level talks between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers held at Lahore from July 25 to 28. The Mehbooba Mufti government has been advocating opening of the Suchetgarh border route on the pattern of the Wagah-Attari post, saying it will boost tourism and bring people of the two countries together.

A BSF source said the issue cropped up during talks but was still in infancy as both the forces left the decision to their respective governments. “We are in favour of opening this route but before that we want Pakistan Rangers to put an end to ceasefire violations, infiltration and improve the situation on the border,” said the source.

Saying the issue will be discussed threadbare between the Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers, he said both were hopeful of a positive outcome.

“Opening of this route will help improve ties and will allow cultural and other types of exchanges, which is a normal practice on the Wagah border. Recently, a cultural exchange programme was held at the Wagah-Attari border in which artistes from both sides participated,” the source added.