Torkham: The Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been partially reopened for large vehicles after a 25-day closure. Following the reopening for trade activities, the first truck from Pakistan has crossed into Afghanistan.
According to Human Online Reporter, vehicles carrying patients have also been allowed to cross, while pedestrian movement is expected to resume from Friday.
The decision to reopen the border came after a flag meeting between the border forces of both countries, following negotiations between tribal elders, religious scholars, and traders from both sides.
Official sources revealed that customs staff had been instructed to report for duty in the morning, and repair work on the FIA scanner inside the container for pedestrian movement had commenced. Once the scanner is fixed, the border will also be opened for foot traffic.
During the 25-day closure, delegations from both countries met twice to build confidence and negotiate terms for reopening the border. The Pakistani delegation, including Malik Tajuddin and Shah Khalid Shinwari, urged Afghan authorities to observe a ceasefire and halt construction at the disputed site as a trust-building measure before reopening the border.
Although Afghan officials sought time to consult their government in Kabul, no formal response was received. Eventually, a flag meeting between border forces led to arrangements for the reopening.
The closure of the border significantly affected local communities and traders. According to business representatives, Pakistan suffered a daily loss of $2.5 million in exports and 500 million Pakistani rupees in import-related trade losses.
Local leaders that the region thrives when the border is open, but life comes to a halt when it is closed. Besides major traders and industrialists, daily wage workers and small businesses also heavily rely on cross-border movement for their livelihoods.
The conflict began on February 22 when Afghanistan started construction of a checkpoint at a disputed location, which Pakistan objected to. The situation escalated into an exchange of gunfire, involving both light and heavy weaponry.
During these clashes, three Pakistani personnel were injured, while reports of casualties on the Afghan side remained unconfirmed. Pakistani security sources stated that six Afghan posts were targeted, including Jungle Post, Commando Post, Barrage Post, Khawara Post, Shiraz Post, and Khamsari Post. Pakistan maintains that one of these posts was being built within its territory.
Due to the border tensions, residents of Bacha Mena village near the border were forced to flee, seeking refuge with relatives in Landi Kotal.
The escalation occurred just as the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government was making efforts to establish diplomatic ties with Afghanistan to reduce violence in the province. Officials believe that meaningful dialogue with Afghanistan is crucial for restoring peace in the region.
