The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan reopened on Saturday, ending a 28-day closure that halted trade and transit. The reopening followed successful negotiations between jirga members from both countries, addressing the conflict that had sparked the shutdown.
The border, a crucial trade route for the region, was initially closed on February 21 after clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces over construction activities near the crossing. The skirmishes injured at least eight people, including six security personnel, and caused extensive damage to immigration infrastructure.
Also Read: Thousands of trucks stuck at Torkham border.
Trade activities resumed on Thursday, but pedestrian crossings remained restricted due to a technical issue in the immigration system. Engineers resolved the problem, allowing full operations to recommence. Only individuals with valid passports and visas are now permitted to cross, although Afghan patients in need of medical treatment were granted special entry.
Officials from both sides confirmed that a meeting at the Afghan Customs House had finalized the terms of the reopening, aligning with the decisions made by the joint Pak-Afghan Jirga. The reopening saw an immediate flow of cargo trucks between the two nations, signaling the return of vital trade.
