After nearly a month of suspension, the Torkham border has reopened for pedestrians, allowing thousands on both sides to cross into Pakistan and Afghanistan. The closure, which began on February 21, followed tensions between Pakistani and Afghan security forces over construction activities near the border. The long-awaited reopening comes after successful negotiations between jirga leaders from both countries.
Heavy Congestion at the Border
As soon as the gates reopened at 8 AM on Saturday, thousands of stranded individuals rushed to cross. Afghan authorities urged people to delay travel for at least two days to ease congestion. Similarly, Pakistani journalist Jawad Shinwari reported overwhelming crowds on the Pakistani side as well.
Pakistani officials clarified that only Afghan nationals with valid passports and visas would be allowed entry. Previously, those carrying Tazkira (Afghan ID cards) could cross, but this policy has now been discontinued. However, critically ill patients are still permitted to enter Pakistan under the previous medical exemption process.
Pakistan-Afghanistan Talks on Border Disputes
The border tensions stemmed from a dispute over construction activities near the crossing. Pakistan accused Afghan forces of building illegal structures within Pakistani territory, while Afghan officials claimed that Pakistan had erected unauthorized towers near the terminal. The standoff escalated when six Pakistani troops and two Afghan personnel were injured in an exchange of gunfire.
On March 17, a joint jirga of tribal elders and traders brokered a deal, leading to a ceasefire, suspension of construction, and border reopening. The agreement marks an attempt to restore stability in an area vital for trade and transit between the two nations.
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Diplomatic Engagements and Security Concerns
As tensions eased, Pakistan’s special representative to Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, traveled to Kabul on Friday for discussions with Afghan Foreign Minister Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi. Their talks focused on bilateral relations, trade, transit issues, and Pakistan’s security concerns.
Pakistani authorities have repeatedly accused militant groups of operating from Afghan soil, claiming that recent attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan were orchestrated from across the border. The Afghan Taliban, however, deny these allegations.
The meeting also covered issues related to Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Muttaqi stressed that refugees should return to Afghanistan voluntarily and with dignity, rather than facing forced deportation. In response, Sadiq assured that Pakistan would facilitate visa issuance and improve transit regulations.
Trade and Transit Challenges
Beyond security concerns, both sides acknowledged that obstacles in trade and transit routes hurt economic cooperation. Afghan officials emphasized that political tensions should not disrupt cross-border trade, which is essential for both economies.
This is Sadiq’s second visit to Kabul in three months, reflecting the urgency of resolving disputes amid worsening relations. With security challenges persisting, future talks will be crucial in determining the stability of the Torkham border and broader Pakistan-Afghanistan ties.
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