Pak forced to accept Indian dates for opening points at LoC: Sultan

Thursday November 17, 2005 (0838 PST)

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RAWALPINDI, November 17 (Online): Military spokesman Major General Shaukat Sultan while referring to opening the trans-Kashmir crossing points noted that Pakistan could not unilaterally open the five Line of Control (LoC) points and subsequently Islamabad expressed willingness on dates identified by India to open the LoC crossing points.

"It is not a difficult task to open these LoC crossing points on daily basis, however Islamabad cannot open the crossing points unilaterally," Director General Inter Services Public Relations Major General Shaukat Sultan expressed these remarks while talking to a private TV channel Wednesday.

Shaukat Sultan suggested that opening of crossing at Haji Pirari would facilitate quake affectees of Baramula-Uri sector from Indian side and Haji Pir and Bagh areas of Pakistan.

He informed that roads in the quake-stricken areas were opened and Rs. 3.62 billion had been disbursed as compensation so far among devastated quake-affectees.

He, however underlined that presence of additional personnel and security staff for checking travelling documents was a must at the crossing points to curb illegal movements of elements.

He expressed optimism that trans-Kashmir movements between people of Kashmiris at Chakoti-Ari crossing would initiate formally today (Thursday).

Referring to relief goods, he underscored that areas rocked by recent earthquake were earlier dispatched relief goods and shelters would now maintain supply.

Two main roads of Neelum and Balakot valleys in the quake-torn areas have been completely opened and efforts being taken by army engineers corps and frontier works organization are appreciable, he underlined.

With the fast approaching of cold weather especially in parts of Neelum valley road remained closed completely there due to record snowfall, he informed ration would be stored there to face the chilling weather.

End.