Help Pakistani Samjhauta passengers: Sharif tells officials

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the country's Foreign Office to resolve immediately the issues of Pakistanis stranded in India due to non-operation of the Samjhauta Express that runs between the two countries.

According to a statement issued by the prime ministers office, Sharif directed the authorities to provide all kinds of necessary facilitation and help to the stranded passengers and keep his office updated regarding the status, Daily Times reported.

The Delhi-bound Samjhauta Express, carrying both Indian and Pakistani passengers, was recalled from the Wagah border on Thursday after the Indian authorities informed Pakistani officials of Punjab farmers' protest on the Indian side of the border.

The farmers in Indian Punjab were holding rail blockade to demand compensation for destruction of their cotton crop by whitefly pest, according to reports.

Pakistan also on Friday summoned a senior Indian diplomat to convey concern over cancellation of the cross-border train service.