The first of three points on the Line of Control [ Images ] (LoC) between India and Pakistan was opened today for earthquake relief work.

Indian and Pakistani Army officers shook hands and exchanged pleasantries at the frontier point of Chakhan-Da-Bag.

Amidst hundreds of locals and media persons, officers of both countries hugged each other and exchanged white flags. Locals were swept away in a sea of emotion, as they rushed to meet near and dear ones separated for half a century.

The crossing point at Kaman in Uri will open on November 9, while Tithwal in Tangdhar will open on November 10.

Image: A Pakistani army officer (C) from the border at Titrinote hands over a white flag to an Indian army [ Images ] officer (R) on the Line of Control.

Also See: India, Pakistan open first point on LoC

Photograph: AAMIR QURESHI/AFP/Getty Images