Muzaffarabad Bus Forms From Today

Srinagar - The designated authorities on either side of the dividing line of control are all set to start issuing application forms for the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service scheduled to begin on April 7, from Friday.

Regional Passport Office Srinagar has been designated as issuing authority for application forms and applicants are required to fill forms in triplicate and then submit those with the said office for verification purposes. Those who have been cleared for travel shall be informed in advance, sources said.

The authorities expect application forms for travel by the first bus to reach the Srinagar Passport Office, by mid-March.

The format of the forms, respective immigration posts on apparently from that for visa applications will have to be produced at the respective immigration post on either side of the LoC. As has been agreed upon by India and Pakistan, no passport details will be sought from the applicants.

The entry permit, sources said will be valid for one month and those coming over will be free to travel the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir during this period. On the Pakistan side, the permit will also be valid for travel to Gilgit and Baltistan.

One report said buses from either side will not cross the LoC. Instead, passengers will travel up to there, cross by foot and will be issued entry permit at the immigration post of the host country They will then board the buses on either side for onward travel. This arrangement will be temporary till Lal Pul, a key bridge over Jehlum river, is reconstructed for the purpose, sources said.

(Kashmir Observer, 06 March, 2005)