Af-Pak trade via Torkham remains paralysed

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Amid intermittent clashes between Afghan and Pakistani forces, the Torkham crossing remains shut for the 13th day in a row.

Both sides have acknowledged casualties in the skirmishes, which have forced civilians from their homes on both sides of the Durand Line.

Meanwhile, businesspeople and transporters complained they were suffering losses running into millions of dollars daily due to the route’s continued closure.

With bilateral trade literally paralysed, thousands of trucks laden with perishable goods and essential items remained stranded on both sides.

Porters, mainly children who rely on cross-border trade for their livelihoods, have been rendered jobless and border controls tightened.

The closure has also affected travellers, including patients seeking medical treatment in Pakistan, and those trying to return home.

Several rounds of talks between Pakistani and Afghan officials on reopening the key crossing have ended on an inconclusive note.

mud