The Kaman Bridge over the Line of Control reopened to return the body of a Pakistani national who crossed into Indian territory
The Kaman Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, which connects India and Pakistan across the Line of Control (LoC), was reopened on Saturday for the first time in six years. However, the reopening came under unusual and tragic circumstances as it was used to return the body of a Pakistani national who had crossed into Indian territory.
According to official sources, the Indian Army discovered the body of a Pakistani citizen who had inadvertently crossed the LoC. Following standard protocols, Indian authorities contacted their Pakistani counterparts through established channels. After necessary formalities, the body was returned across the Kaman Aman Setu, also known as the Bridge of Peace, located in the Uri sector of Baramulla district.
The bridge, which once symbolized hope and connection between the two nations, has remained closed since 2018 after cross-border tensions escalated. It was previously used for the Karavan-e-Aman (Caravan of Peace) bus service, facilitating travel for divided families between Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Local officials emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the reopening, stating that the return of the deceased reflected a commitment to dignity in death despite ongoing tensions.
The reopening, although under tragic conditions, has raised hopes for the resumption of cross-border trade and travel. Residents on both sides of the LoC expressed optimism, recalling how the bridge had previously fostered people-to-people contact and economic exchanges before its closure.
While there is no official confirmation of a permanent reopening, the incident has reignited discussions about restoring ties through humanitarian gestures and diplomatic dialogue.
