IT was much heartening to know that both India and Pakistan have relaxed visa restrictions for senior citizens. Still many things are unclear and disturbing. For example:

1. What would be the requirement of Pakistani and Indian Immigration authorities to permit such visitors to cross and enter respectively their customs and check-point boundaries?

What other documents, besides a valid passport, would be required?

How many photographs and of what size and colour would be required?

How much luggage would they be allowed to carry? What amount of foreign exchange would they be permitted to carry?

2. Another important issue is about their spouses. Will they be also allowed to accompany their husbands/wives even if they do not fall under this category?

The common sense rule is that they should also be allowed this facility otherwise who would look after and care for senior citizens.

Such and other related questions require immediate response as many elderly people are anxious to see their near and dear ones before they pass away from this world.

It would be of great service by both governments if they put the formats of application forms and requisite information on their websites and give due media coverage.

ZAHID HUSSAIN BORHANI     Karachi