Pakistan reopens Kartarpur corridor after ceasefire

Pakistan has reopened the Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh pilgrims, just days after a ceasefire agreement was reached between Islamabad and New Delhi amid escalating military tensions.

However, India has yet to reciprocate the move, keeping the Zero Line Gate closed and barring pilgrims from crossing over to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib.

The corridor, a symbol of interfaith peace and diplomacy, was closed on May 7 following cross-border hostilities, including Indian drone incursions into Pakistani territory.

Although the corridor has resumed operations from the Pakistani side, officials say India has not provided any communication or coordination regarding the return of Sikh pilgrims from their side.

“Local and overseas Sikh yatris are still arriving through Pakistan, but India has not reopened its end of the corridor or shared any updates,” said an official from the Kartarpur Corridor management. “Due to the lack of engagement from the Indian side, the corridor may be closed indefinitely again.”

On May 8, the Indian government officially suspended operations at its end of the corridor, citing security concerns related to the ongoing conflict.

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This has left thousands of Sikh pilgrims in distress, especially during a spiritually significant period for the community.

Originally inaugurated in November 2019, the Kartarpur Corridor allows visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan — the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The initiative was widely praised as a major milestone in easing bilateral tensions and promoting religious harmony.

Pakistan’s decision to restore the corridor, despite recent hostilities, is being seen as a gesture of goodwill towards the global Sikh community. However, observers note that the future of this key religious passage now hinges on India’s response.