Torkham border reopens after 26 days

LANDIKOTAL : After remaining closed for 26 days, causing heavy financial losses to traders and a significant revenue shortfall for Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Torkham border finally reopened at 4:30 pm on Tuesday, allowing stranded cargo trucks to resume movement as traders and drivers celebrated the long-awaited breakthrough following jirga-led negotiations.

Hundreds of trucks carrying perishable goods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, remained stuck on both sides, resulting in millions of dollars in losses. The prolonged blockade also led to a decline in customs revenue.

As soon as the border reopened, cargo trucks started crossing to their respective destinations, marking the end of a crisis that had paralyzed trade for nearly a month. Many traders and transporters, who had faced extreme financial strain, expressed relief and joy. The shutdown had not only impacted trade but also created severe humanitarian challenges. Patients from Afghanistan remained stranded, while Afghan students studying in Pakistani institutions missed important academic activities, including exams. The daily wage labourers were left struggling to feed their families.

Customs Association President Mujeeb Khan Shinwari stated that regular passenger movement would resume in two days, as the outdated immigration system needed urgent improvement.

The border closure resulted from a dispute over construction activities near the crossing.

Amid mounting pressure from traders and the affected civilian population, a jirga of tribal elders from both sides stepped in to mediate. The elders played a crucial role in bridging differences. Their efforts, combined with high-level diplomatic discussions, eventually led to a breakthrough agreement. Following negotiations, Pakistani and Afghan officials agreed to stop disputed construction activities, observe a ceasefire and restore normal border operations. Nangarhar’s Deputy Governor Azizullah Mustafa confirmed the agreement, expressing optimism that improved communication and cooperation would prevent such standoffs in the future.