Torkham Border Crossing Suspended Amid Dispute Over Construction Activities
Suspension of Cross-Border Movement
The cross-border movement of people through the Torkham border crossing was unexpectedly halted on the night between Friday and Saturday. The suspension occurred after a disagreement arose between Pakistani and Afghan security forces regarding construction activities on both sides of the border.
Disagreement Over Border Construction
Sources informed Dawn that the dispute stemmed from conflicting actions related to construction. On the Afghan side, there were renovation and expansion efforts on a security post, while on the Pakistani side, a signboard was being fixed. Both sides had previously agreed to notify each other before carrying out any construction work near the border or altering its structure.
Closure of Customs and Immigration Offices
Following the dispute, customs and immigration offices were closed, and staff were ordered to leave the premises. Authorities instructed local clearing agents, traders, transporters, porters, and daily-wage workers to return home, halting the clearance of goods for export and import.
Safety Concerns for Local Residents
In response to fears of potential armed conflict, authorities evacuated residents from the nearby Bacha Maina residential compound, directing them to move to Landi Kotal for safety.
Impact on Trade and Transport
Fruit and vegetable dealers were forced to reverse their loaded merchandise due to the uncertainty surrounding the border closure. Additionally, drivers of remaining loaded vehicles were advised to return to safety, with many already beginning their journey back.
Humanitarian Gesture
Later, sources revealed that Pakistani authorities allowed the transfer of six coffins containing the bodies of Afghan nationals back to Afghanistan, as a gesture of goodwill amid the tensions.
Ongoing Border Dispute
The issue of unauthorized construction and renovations at the border has been ongoing since 2016 when heavy gunfire exchange between Pakistani and Afghan border forces resulted in casualties. Since then, both countries have taken a hard stance on border security and have reacted strongly to any construction activities carried out without mutual notification.
Key Points:
- Cross-border movement at Torkham was suspended following a dispute between Pakistani and Afghan security forces over construction activities.
- Both countries had previously agreed to inform each other about any construction work near the border.
- Customs and immigration offices were closed, and trade activities were halted.
- Local residents were evacuated due to safety concerns, and trade vehicles were instructed to return.
- Pakistani authorities allowed the transfer of Afghan bodies as a goodwill gesture.
- The construction dispute has been a longstanding issue since 2016.
