PESHAWAR: After over twenty days of closure due to cross-border tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Torkham border is scheduled to reopen tomorrow, Saturday morning.
According to official sources, the Torkham border will be opened tomorrow, Saturday, at 9 am exclusively for Afghan families returning to Afghanistan. Sources indicate that commercial activities and pedestrian movement on both sides of the border will remain suspended during this time.
Officials from the relevant department have stated that verbal orders regarding this decision have been issued, but an official notification is yet to be released. Nevertheless, staff members have been directed to report for duty tomorrow to ensure that the process of returning Afghan families to their home country proceeds in an orderly manner.
It is important to note that the prolonged closure of the Torkham border has severely impacted residents, transporters, and the business community. Hundreds of freight trucks and containers are stranded on both sides of the border, paralysing trade and affecting the local economy, while transporters are facing significant difficulties.
Additionally, a ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been agreed upon until November 6. Fresh talks will be held in Istanbul on that date, with discussions expected to focus on key issues such as the border situation, the return of refugees, and trade matters. Locals are urging the government to take effective steps to normalise relations between the two countries, which could lead to a permanent opening of the border and a resumption of economic activities in the region.
It is worth mentioning that customs clearing agents and locals in Landikotal staged a demonstration yesterday to advocate for the reopening of the Torkham border and have planned another protest for Saturday.
