ISLAMABAD, Feb 21: The Indian High Commission on Monday announced arrangements put in place to facilitate timely issuance of visas to those desirous of witnessing the coming cricket matches between Pakistan and India.

According to a statement issued here, all those holding valid tickets for a particular match will be considered for grant of cricket visa. Two special counters will be opened in the visa section of the high commission from Feb 24.

These counters will remain open for the duration of the cricket series, and will function from 1000 hours to 1400 hours five days a week (Monday to Friday). Applicants will be granted visas after 24 hours.

Passports can be collected back the following day between 1500-1700 hours. Those applying on Friday can collect passports on Saturday between 1200 and 1400 hours. Two visa camps will be opened in Lahore.

The dates for the first visa camp in Lahore are Feb 25-27 from 1000 to 1400 hours at the Qadhafi Stadium. A second visa camp will be opened in second half of March. In Karachi, a visa camp will be opened in the first half of March. Venue and dates will be announced in due course.

The visas issued will be designated as 'Cricket Visas', and will be valid for the duration of the match, providing additional days for travel to and for the venue of the cricket match.

Visas issued will be for crossing the Wagah-Attari border on foot, and by train, bus or air. The mode of travel, however, must be the same for both the onward and return journeys.

Applicants for cricket visas must comply with following requirements: i) Visa application forms must be accompanied by valid passport and ticket for the cricket match. ii) The application must clearly specify the mode of travel. iii) Four copies of the visitors' visa application form for single entry visa along with four photographs. -APP