Thousands of cargo vehicles stranded as Torkham crossing remains closed

The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained closed for bilateral trade on Wednesday, marking the 25th consecutive day of suspension.

According to customs officials, long queues of cargo trucks are still seen on both sides of the border due to the prolonged closure. Thousands of vehicles carrying import, export, and transit goods have been stranded at various locations.

Officials said Pakistan exports cement, medicines, textiles, fresh fruits, and vegetables to Afghanistan, while coal, soapstone, and both fresh and dry fruits are among the key items imported from Afghanistan.

Sources noted that the Torkham route facilitates an average of Rs850 million worth of daily trade between the two countries, which includes exports valued at Rs580 million and imports worth Rs250 million. The trade generates around Rs50 million in daily revenue for Pakistan’s national treasury.

Meanwhile, immigration authorities said the deportation of Afghan nationals residing illegally in Pakistan is being carried out in phases. The Torkham border was reopened three days ago to allow the voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees to their home country.