Advanced visa verification system installed at Torkham border to curb illegal immigration

WEB DESK: In a strategic move aimed at curbing illegal movement between Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Immigration Department of Pakistan has shifted its electronic visa verification system from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) offices to the Torkham zero point, officials announced on Monday.

Addressing the media, FIA Assistant Director Yasar Arafat said that the primary objective of this electronic visa verification system was to deter unlawful border crossings into Pakistan.

He highlighted that the team had tirelessly worked to offer top-notch services to travellers at the Torkham offices.

Arafat highlighted that the implementation of this electronic visa service would significantly decrease the prevalence of counterfeit visas.

This advanced system is anticipated to streamline the processing of travellers possessing authentic documents, consequently reducing wait times at Torkham for individuals entering Pakistan.

According to The News, Arafat disclosed that an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 passengers crossed the border daily. To efficiently manage this influx and minimise delays, additional FIA staff has been deployed, and multiple counters have been set up.

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These proactive measures are geared towards expediting the repatriation of Afghan citizens, with more than 60,000 Afghan nationals voluntarily returning to Afghanistan in recent weeks.

Pakistan has set a deadline for illegal Afghan nationals to exit the country by October 30, underscoring the government’s commitment to border security and immigration control.