On March 22, the Torkham border crossing finally reopened, for pedestrians.

The crossing, located on the western end of the historic Khyber Pass, is a passage between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Beyond its geographic location, Torkham is a border trade hub, a strategic military post and a cultural bridge connecting diverse communities on both sides of the border. However, recent events have exposed the fragility of the traditional ties, highlighting the complex interplay of economic, security and diplomatic considerations.

As a commercial hub, Torkham has a pivotal role in regional trade. It facilitates a significant portion of the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan as well as a lot of transit trade between Central Asian republics and South Asia. Thousands of cargo vehicles pass through the crossing daily, transporting goods ranging from perishable produce to industrial machinery. The activity drives the economies of both nations and provides livelihoods to thousands of people engaged in transportation, logistics and complementary services.

Recognising its economic potential, both Pakistan and international stakeholders have invested heavily in upgrading infrastructure at Torkham. One of the most significant developments is the construction of a modern terminal, designed to meet international standards, with the support of the Asian Development Bank. The state-of-the-art Integrated Transit Trade Management System aims to streamline customs inspections, reduce clearance times and enhance the overall efficiency of cross-border trade. Once completed, the project, costing over Rs16.6 billion, is expected to accommodate more than 500 cargo vehicles simultaneously.

The development is anticipated to boost Pakistan’s trade volume with Afghanistan and Central Asia, fostering economic growth and regional integration.

Complementing the terminal is the Khyber Pass Economic Corridor project, which envisions a 48 kilometre, four-lane expressway connecting Peshawar with Torkham. The corridor is a part of the broader Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation routes, linking Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and the Arabian Sea.

The expressway is expected to alleviate road congestion, reduce travel time and lower vehicle operation costs. It is projected to create up to 100,000 new jobs in Pakistan’s Khyber district, stimulating the local economy and enhancing regional connectivity.

Recent disruptions at Torkham despite these promising developments have seriously strained trade and economic stability. The Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry has raised alarm over rising trade barriers, high transportation costs and the prolonged closure of the border, which have significantly impacted cross-border trade.

PAJCCI president Junaid Makda has warned that the recent Torkham border closure caused over 5,000 trucks carrying perishable goods to be stranded, resulting in massive financial losses.

He cautioned that prolonged border closures are forcing traders to seek alternative routes, including Iran’s Chabahar and Bandar Abbas ports. “Such a shift will threaten Pakistan’s economic interests. Regional competitors such as India are increasingly capturing the diverted trade.”

Zia-ulHaq Sarhadi, the senior PAJCCI vice president, says that under international protocols, Pakistan must facilitate trade for landlocked neighbor Afghanistan. He says a failure to do so will not only tarnish Pakistan’s global reputation but also discourage investment and erode trader confidence, especially for small and medium enterprises.

Controlling Torkham is essential for both nations to deal with all kinds of security threats, including infiltration by militants and smugglers. Given the region’s rugged terrain and complex sociopolitical fabric, its strategic value cannot be overstated.

Mujeeb Khan Shinwari, the Torkham Customs Clearing Agents Association president, acknowledges the government’s efforts to strengthen ties with Uzbekistan. However, he warns that unless trade barriers at Torkham are removed, Pakistan risks losing its status as a major regional trade corridor. Financial losses from the Tokham border crossing closure have been staggering. “Daily export losses via Torkham came to $2 million; import losses soared to Rs500 million. Together, transport and trade sectors suffered an estimated $3 million loss per day; exports alone lost up to Rs 700 million every day.”

The impact of the disruption extends beyond traders and transporters. Mujeeb says the shutdown of the Torkham border also forced the closure of 150 customs clearing offices at Torkham, rendering 1,000 workers unemployed and affecting an additional 2,000 labourers. “Hotel and shops owners in Torkham and in Landikotal also incurred losses running into millions of rupees daily, further deepening the economic crisis. For a region where cross-border trade is a primary source of income, such disruptions threaten livelihoods and economic stability.”

Beyond its economic dimension, Torkham holds profound strategic significance. The Khyber Pass has historically been a gateway for armies, traders and explorers and served as a crucial link between South Asia and Central Asia. In contemporary times, the crossing remains vital for military logistics, humanitarian aid deliveries and as a monitoring point for all movement between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Controlling Torkham is essential for both nations to deal with all kinds of security issues, including infiltration by militants and smugglers. Given the region’s rugged terrain and complex sociopolitical fabric, Torkham’s strategic value cannot be overstated.

Recent tensions have further complicated the situation. On February 21, Pakistani authorities had closed the border over construction activity near the zero point that they said violated bilateral agreements. The abrupt closure left thousands of trucks stranded on both sides. What began as a disagreement on border management later escalated into violent clashes between security forces.

The humanitarian consequences of the closure were severe. Thousands of travelers, including patients seeking medical treatment, students and traders, found themselves stranded in harsh conditions. The suspension of cross-border movement disrupted daily life, leaving many without access to food, shelter and basic amenities.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, diplomatic efforts were initiated to resolve the impasse. Pakistani and Afghan officials engaged in negotiations to address the underlying disputes, particularly regarding border management and construction activities.

Meanwhile, international stakeholders, including regional organisations and neighbouring countries, expressed concern over the situation, urging restraint and the swift reopening of the border to alleviate economic and humanitarian hardships.

The Torkham border symbolises the intricate balance between economic aspirations, security challenges and diplomatic relations in South and Central Asia. Its role as a vital trade corridor stands juxtaposed against historical tensions and evolving geopolitical dynamics. The recent crisis underscores the delicate nature of border management and the pressing need for cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Ensuring the continued functionality of Torkham requires sustained dialogue, collaborative policy-making and a commitment to fostering regional stability. Including local leaders and trade unions can help quickly resolve disagreements.

As the two governments navigate these challenges, striking a balance between security measures and trade facilitation will be crucial. The economic and humanitarian stakes are too high for prolonged disruptions. With thoughtful diplomacy and strategic investments in border management, Torkham can continue to serve as a bridge connecting nations, economies and cultures. Only through cooperative efforts can this vital crossing fulfill its potential as a gateway to regional prosperity.

The writer is a freelance journalist and a social activist