PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Pakistan has temporarily banned incoming pedestrian movement from Afghanistan through the Durand Line.
With Covid-19 infections sharply rising in Pakistan, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) also banned the arrival of pedestrians through the Iranian border.
The decision was taken to control the import of any new mutation of the coronavirus into the country. NCOC said in a statement on Sunday.
Pakistani citizens in the two countries, as well as Afghans seeking extreme emergency medical treatment in Pakistan will be allowed to enter the country.
“The current policy of land crossings’ management with Afghanistan and Iran has been reviewed to ensure regulated inbound pedestrian movement…” the NCOC added.
Effective from midnight May 4-5 till midnight May 1920, the policy will be applicable to inbound pedestrians only –with no effect on the existing cargo movement under bilateral and transit trade.
Border terminals will remain open seven days a week. “Employment strength of LEAs/health staff at BTs will be increased for implementation of testing protocols and to control high traffic density.
NCOC said inbound pedestrians would undergo Rapid Antigen Test (RAT). Positive cases (for Pakistani nationals only) will be shifted to nearby quarantine facilities.
“Inbound pedestrian with Afghan exemptions will also undergo RAT testing at BTs. Positive cases, if any; will be reverted back to Afghanistan.”
Thermal scanning for all drivers and co-drivers will be carried out on arrival at border terminals. Symptomatic cases will undergo RAT testing.
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