The Torkham border crossing, a key link between Pakistan and Afghanistan, reopened for commercial cargo on Tuesday. This reopening occurred after Pakistan agreed to postpone the new visa regime for Afghan drivers. The deadline for implementing the visa requirement has been extended to March 31.
Initially, the Afghan authorities had shut the border for trade on January 13. This action was in response to Pakistan enforcing a policy. The policy demanded visas and passports for drivers and their assistants. These personnel transport commercial cargoes into Pakistan.
Read: Torkham Border Closure Continues Amid Pakistan-Afghanistan Visa Dispute
After a 10-day halt, cargo vehicles from Afghanistan began entering Pakistan, signalling the resumption of trade. Customs sources at Torkham confirmed this development. The Afghan drivers have been granted time until March 31 to obtain the necessary travel documents as per Pakistan’s requirements.
Agreement Between Authorities
The decision to delay the visa restrictions resulted from discussions between the Afghan Consulate General in Peshawar and Pakistani authorities. Following this agreement, Afghan drivers without the requisite travel documents will face entry restrictions into Pakistan starting April 1.
The recent closure wasn’t limited to Torkham. Other border crossings such as Chaman, Ghulam Khan, Angoor Ada, and Kharlachi also experienced shutdowns during the past 10 days. This comprehensive closure underscored the significant impact of the policy change on regional trade dynamics.
