The Torkham border crossing remained closed for the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday, disrupting trade and pedestrian movement. The prolonged closure has left hundreds of travellers stranded on both sides while traders face financial losses running into millions of rupees.
Negotiations between Pakistani authorities and the interim Afghan government began at Zero Point on Monday, but the talks ended without a resolution, sources confirmed. Another round of discussions is expected today in an attempt to break the deadlock.
A vital trade artery between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Torkham border has witnessed frequent closures over the years due to ongoing border disputes, skirmishes, and security concerns.
The latest standoff arose when Pakistan attempted to install a signboard at the Pakistan Gate, prompting Afghan forces to accelerate the construction of a security post. Tensions escalated further when Afghan troops attempted to establish a checkpoint in a disputed area, leading to Pakistani authorities halting the work. This confrontation between security forces resulted in a complete suspension of trade activities.
The border closure has caused severe hardship for travellers while disrupting the flow of imports and exports, dealing a major blow to businesses on both sides.
Previously, in August, the Torkham crossing was shut for three days after the Afghan Taliban investigated claims that Pakistani fighter jets had violated Afghan airspace over Nangarhar and Kunar provinces.
Tensions surged again in December following reports of Pakistani airstrikes on suspected militant hideouts in Afghanistan. Afghan officials alleged that these strikes caused civilian casualties, further straining diplomatic ties between the two nations.
