Expecting a huge passenger traffic for the India-Pakistan cricket series, Indian Railways have decided to allow only 35 kg of luggage per passenger in the Samjhauta Express next month.
"For Samjhauta Express between Atari and Wagah, the luggage per passenger has been restricted to 35 kg only and no excess luggage will be permissible because of security constraints," official sources said Saturday.
The decision has been taken by by the Railway ministry following a directive from Union Home Ministry keeping in mind the cricket series would attract a large number of passengers from India, they said.
The Samjhauta Express, which rarely runs to its full capacity, is expected to have a huge traffic in view of the promise of a liberal visa regime.
"The basic objective behind the decision is to ensure that passengers' clearance at the border point should not take much time. Security is another major concern on the train, and, more so in the cricket season, when a sizeable number of people would be visiting Pakistan", the sources said.
With the latest decision, they said each passenger would be allowed to carry only two pieces of baggage, with their combined weight not exceeding 35kg. In addition the passengers would be permitted only to carry small hand baggage, umbrellas, overcoats, children's baskets and likewise.
