The border between Indian and Pakistani Kashmir has been opened up to allow earthquake relief supplies to flow more freely. The historic move is seen as a largely symbolic gesture. Aid is desperately needed after the powerful quake that hit the region on October 8.

Kashmir has been divided by the so-called Line of Control since India and Pakistan fought their first war over the region, shortly after independence from Britain in 1947. With winter fast approaching, there are serious concerns about the hundreds of thousands of people left homeless by the quake. As well as helping to increase the flow of aid, it is hoped that some civilians will be allowed to cross the border.

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