83 Indians stranded in Pakistan helped to reach Attari

The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has provided assistance to 83 Indians stranded in Pakistan to cross over to the Attari land border with the help of the Pakistan government.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted: "@IndiainPakistan assists 83 Indians stranded in Pakistan cross over to Attari with help of Government of Pakistan. MEA is working with Pakistan High Commission to similarly help Pakistanis stranded in India to return," he posted.

Many Pakistani passengers have been stranded in India following cancellation of the Samjhauta Express.

In a statement, the Pakistan High Commission said it is providing assistance and food to its stranded nationals. "Pakistan High Commission has taken up the matter with Ministry of External Affairs for alternative transport arrangements for the stranded Pakistani passengers," it added.

Many trains, including the Samjhauta Express, have been hit by the farmers' agitation in Punjab. The farmers are protesting against Punjab government's response to the white-fly attack on the cotton crop in the Malwa belt. Many farmers have resorted blocking the rail route between Delhi and Amritsar.