India and Pakistan began trading between their respective parts of Kashmir for the first time in six decades yesterday, raising hopes of a drop in tension in the disputed Himalayan region.
A convoy of 13 trucks carrying mostly apples set off on a historic trip to Pakistani Kashmir from the Indian-zone of the divided state, with 14 trucks with Pakistani goods making the journey in the opposite direction.
“It is a historic day which will surely help the economy of both parts of Kashmir,” said Indian Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra, as he flagged off the convoy from Salamabad, 12km from the heavily militarized Line of Control.
Villagers here cheered and waved at the truck drivers as they steered their vehicles out of a warehouse, as traditional drum-beaters entertained the crowd.
The crossing is the first time that vehicles will be allowed to cross Aman Setu, or Peace Bridge, on the LoC since arch rivals India and Pakistan fought a war over the region in 1947.
Militant violence has fallen sharply since the nuclear-armed states began a peace process in 2004 aimed at settling all outstanding issues including the future of Kashmir, which they both claim in full.
But in the past few months, the Kashmir valley has witnessed the biggest pro-independence demonstrations since a revolt erupted in 1989, triggering a violent crackdown by Indian security forces.
Security was tight for the trade opening, with even the fruit subject to stringent security checks.
“The items were scanned in x-ray machines here before allowing the truckers to take them across,” police officer Faisal Qayoom said.
The opening of the trade route has been a key demand of Kashmiri separatists.
In recent months they led weeks of protests that were sparked by a decision provide land in the Indian-controlled part of the region to a Hindu pilgrim trust.
Although the Indian government backed down, Hindu hardliners then enforced a punishing blockade of the only road linking the Kashmir valley with the rest of India.
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