What Impact Does the Torkham Border Closure Have on Transporters Amid Afghanistan-Pakistan Tensions?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Transporters from Afghanistan and Pakistan find themselves in dire straits as the Torkham border closure continues. With financial and emotional turmoil, they urge the governments to decouple trade from political tensions. This article explores the profound effects of the ongoing conflict on trade and the lives of those caught in the middle.
Key Takeaways
- Transporters are facing severe hardships due to the closure of the Torkham border.
- Around 4000 to 5000 vehicles are stuck, impacting trade significantly.
- The closure has escalated financial and psychological issues for transporters.
- Calls for separating trade from political issues are growing louder.
- Ceasefire agreements are in place, yet the border remains shut.
Islamabad, Oct 27 (NationPress) Afghan and Pakistani transporters are currently marooned on the road heading to the Torkham border, which has been shut since October 13. They are appealing to officials to separate bilateral trade from the ongoing political and security disputes between the two countries.
The transporters shared with local media that they are experiencing significant hardships, including financial constraints and emotional distress.
According to reports from Pakistan's prominent newspaper Dawn, approximately 4000 to 5000 vehicles laden with various trade items are in limbo, awaiting the reopening of the border, with no clear timeline for the resumption of trade relations in sight. The transporters are grappling with numerous challenges, such as security for themselves and their goods, financial losses, scarcity of food and water, and ongoing mental strain.
One local transporter expressed that many of his colleagues have depleted their funds over the past two weeks in an effort to secure water, food, medicines, and maintenance for their loaded trucks. He lamented that none of the so-called transporters' unions had inquired about their struggles, while brokers and goods owners are indifferent to their financial plight, refusing to unload current shipments to prevent further losses. He emphasized the difficulties in safeguarding their vehicles, sourcing food and water, and enduring nights on the hard ground with no alternatives.
Their plight arises amid escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan starting October 11, shortly after explosions shook Kabul while Afghanistan's Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, was visiting India. Following this, the Taliban initiated a deadly offensive along the border with Pakistan.
Both nations later reached an agreement for an immediate ceasefire after more than a week of intense clashes that resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.
Pakistan has accused the Taliban of permitting hostile factions, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to operate from “sanctuaries” within Afghanistan, a claim the Taliban has denied. The Taliban, in turn, has attributed the escalation in conflict to Pakistan's aggressive actions, including airstrikes on Kabul.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the human toll that geopolitical tensions impose on everyday life. The plight of transporters highlights the need for dialogue and resolution that prioritizes economic stability and human welfare, reminding us that political disputes should not hinder essential trade and livelihoods.
NationPress
28/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Torkham border closed?
The Torkham border closure is a result of heightened tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, exacerbated by recent violent incidents.
How many vehicles are stranded at Torkham?
Approximately 4000 to 5000 vehicles are currently stranded at the Torkham border, awaiting reopening.
What challenges are the transporters facing?
Transporters are facing financial losses, shortages of food and water, security concerns, and emotional distress.
What are the implications of the border closure on trade?
The border closure negatively impacts bilateral trade, leading to significant economic losses for transporters and businesses reliant on cross-border commerce.
What has been the response from the governments?
The governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan have engaged in discussions, resulting in a ceasefire agreement, but the border remains closed.
