The return of the border’s operational status allowed many individuals and goods to cross, alleviating the congestion and delays that had been experienced during the closure
By Mehrab Shah Afridi
TORKHAM: The Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which had been closed for three days due to disputes and an exchange of gunfire, was reopened early Thursday morning. The reopening of this crucial border crossing brought relief and joy to travelers and transporters on both sides.
The Torkham border had been shut after Pakistan raised objections to certain construction activities carried out by the Afghan government near the border. The situation escalated with a brief exchange of gunfire, prompting an immediate closure. This closure had a significant impact on cross-border movement and trade, leading to heightened tensions between the two countries. During the closure, intensive negotiations took place between Pakistani and Afghan officials. These discussions focused on addressing the underlying issues, reviewing construction activities, and finding solutions to prevent future disputes. The talks proved fruitful, leading to an agreement that facilitated the reopening of the border.
At 8 a.m. on Thursday, the Torkham border was officially reopened for both pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The reopening was marked by a large gathering of people and vehicles on both sides of the border, eager to resume normal movement. The return of the border’s operational status allowed many individuals and goods to cross, alleviating the congestion and delays that had been experienced during the closure. Despite the positive development, issues remain regarding the implementation of Temporary Admission Documents (TAD). These documents have become mandatory for crossing the border, leading to concerns among transporters and customs clearing agents. Last Monday, a sit-in was held by these groups near the Torkham border, where they demanded leniency in the TAD policy and better facilities for traders and transporters.
With the border now open, traffic flow has resumed, and both sides are working to manage the increased movement of people and goods. The reopening marks a significant step towards normalizing cross-border activities, but the challenges related to TAD and other administrative procedures remain. Efforts are ongoing to address these issues and ensure smoother operations at the Torkham border. The resolution of these concerns will be crucial for maintaining stable and efficient cross-border relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and for supporting the economic and logistical needs of the region.
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