India has taken strong steps against Pakistan after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where 26 people were killed. On April 23, the Ministry of External Affairs announced that the Attari-Wagah border would be closed right away.

About Attari Border

The Attari-Wagah Border is the border between India and Pakistan, near the towns of Attari in India and Wagah in Pakistan. It is best known for the Wagah Border Ceremony, which happens every evening before sunset.

In this ceremony, soldiers from India (Border Security Force) and Pakistan (Pakistan Rangers) do a special parade. They march with high steps, salute, and lower their flags at the same time. Many people come to watch and cheer for their country. The event is full of energy and shows both pride and respect.

During festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Independence Day, soldiers from both sides also share sweets and greet each other, showing friendly moments even with the tension between the two countries.

The Attari-Wagah border is located on the historic Grand Trunk Road, one of South Asia’s oldest and most important trade routes. Before India and Pakistan were divided in 1947, the cities of Amritsar and Lahore were busy trading centres in the region of Punjab. After the Partition, this important road was divided between the two countries, and the Attari-Wagah border became the main land crossing between them.

On the Indian side, the border is in the village of Attari, which was once home to General Sham Singh Attariwala-wa key leader in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army. Since 1959, a special ceremony called the Beating Retreat Ceremony has been held here every evening.

Why it holds importance 

The Attari-Wagah border is very important for trade and transport. It is India’s only working land route with Pakistan and plays a big role in connecting the two countries.

Reports say that India sends goods like vegetables, soy products, and plastic items through this border, and receives items like dry fruits, rock salt, and cement-many of which come from Afghanistan through Pakistan. This border is also part of the Asian Highway Network, which connects different countries across Asia, making it even more important.

Why movement on Attari-Wagah border is suspended

After the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, theAttari-Wagah border was one of the first places to be affected as tensions between India and Pakistan increased. When relations worsen, India’s Ministry of External Affairs or similar agencies in Pakistan can stop trade, travel, and public events at the border immediately.

On April 23, India closed the Integrated Check Post at Attari. All visas given to Pakistani citizens under the current agreement have been cancelled. Those already in India must leave within 48 hours. People from Pakistan who entered India with valid papers must go back by May 1, 2025.

There are also reports that India might stop the Beating Retreat ceremony at the Attari border after the Pahalgam attack.