Traders Demand Immediate Reopening of Torkham Border Crossing
Following the continued closure of the key Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan, a group of traders in Landi Kotal, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, held a protest on Monday, November 9, calling for the immediate reopening of the route.
The traders warned that the closure of the Torkham crossing has not only disrupted trade but also led to widespread unemployment in the border areas. According to them, dozens of Pakistani travelers remain stranded in Afghanistan, while several cargo trucks are stuck on both sides of the border waiting to cross.
The traders stressed that the closure of this vital trade route has had a direct negative impact on the lives of Pashtun communities on both sides of the border. They warned that if the route is not reopened within three days, they will organize a tribal council (jirga) to decide on further action.
They urged officials from both countries to facilitate the full reopening of the Torkham border through diplomatic negotiations.
Pakistan shut all its trade borders with Afghanistan following recent clashes with the Taliban administration. Although Islamabad has recently allowed limited passage for some Afghan migrants through Torkham, the crossing remains closed for trade and general travel.
