Torkham Border Reopens After ‘Deadly’ Clashes

News Desk 

Peshawar: The reopening of the Torkham border has brought relief to traders on both sides of the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier, but business representatives say the nine-day shutdown has exposed the heavy economic cost of allowing bilateral trade routes to remain closed during disputes.

The border was reopened for all categories of traffic on Friday following talks between Pakistani and Afghan authorities, restoring the movement of commercial goods and passengers after a prolonged standoff.

The closure, which began on September 6 following a dispute over construction activity near the border and subsequent cross-firing between security forces, left thousands of cargo vehicles stranded on both sides.

Perishable consignments, including fresh produce, meat, chicken and juices, were among the hardest hit. According to Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) Director Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi, traders in Pakistan and Afghanistan suffered losses of around $3 million as goods deteriorated during the closure.

PAJCCI Co-Chairman Khan Jan Alkozai and Sarhadi welcomed the reopening, describing it as an important development for businesses that depend on the centuries-old trade route.

They stressed that commercial activity between the neighbouring countries should not be suspended whenever disputes emerge, arguing that border management and security concerns should instead be addressed through stronger inspection and monitoring mechanisms.

The business community has offered to cooperate with authorities on both sides to improve security checks and curb the misuse of transit trade facilities without bringing legitimate commerce to a halt.

Traders said uninterrupted trade is important not only for Pakistan and Afghanistan but also for wider regional connectivity, particularly as new routes and transit arrangements create opportunities for Central Asian markets.

The business community also highlighted the movement of China-origin shipments destined for Afghanistan through Torkham under the Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) system as a potential opportunity to expand regional trade.

With the border now open, traders expect the large number of stranded trucks to gradually clear. PAJCCI representatives expressed hope that most of the vehicles would reach their destinations within three to four days.

For businesses on both sides, however, the latest reopening is also a reminder of the vulnerability of cross-border commerce. Traders say predictable border operations are essential if Pakistan and Afghanistan are to expand bilateral trade and develop Torkham into a stronger regional commercial corridor.