Pakistan’s travel restrictions spark protest in Chaman

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Pakistan’s new conditions for crossing the Duran Line have sparked a protest in southwestern Balochistan province.

Under a recent government decision, which will take effect from November 1, travellers with valid passports and visas will be allowed to cross the Durand Line.

When implemented, last week’s move by the apex committee will put an end to the current system that allows individuals with Afghan identity card (tazkira) to travel across the Durand Line.

On Saturday, Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party, Balochistan Awami Party, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam, Jamaat-i-Islami, Awami Nat­ional Party (ANP) and PML-Q, staged  protest in Chaman against the new regulations.

Representatives of traders, tribal elders and members of civil society also denounced this new directive, Dawn reported.

The sit-in on the Chaman-Kandahar highway against the restrictions was attended by hundreds of people, who blocked the highway. As a result, traffic was suspended.

The new regulations would hurt nearly 40,000 individuals who depended on daily crossings for their livelihoods, the protestors warned.

“We will not accept such restrictions” said Asghar Achakzai, president of ANP’s Balochistan chapter. The curbs would deprive thousands of families of their livelihoods, he feared.

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