Torkham border reopens after 26-day closure over checkpoint dispute

The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan reopened on Wednesday after a 26-day closure following a dispute over a checkpoint constructed by Afghan authorities. 

The reopening followed multiple jirgas involving tribal elders, religious scholars, and traders from both sides. Trade activity resumed in the afternoon, with cargo vehicles passing through the corridor, though pedestrian movement remains suspended.

Torkham is a vital trade link, facilitating around 1,500 cargo trucks daily. Customs sources estimate that trade through this route contributes approximately $3 million per day to Pakistan’s treasury, while the total daily trade volume between the two countries stands at around $1.5 billion.

Operations fully resumed by 4 pm, according to officials. However, pedestrian crossings will stay restricted for at least two to three more days as repairs continue on the immigration system, which was damaged during cross-border firing by Afghan forces. 

Only Afghan patients in need of urgent medical care are being allowed entry into Pakistan for now.

Sources involved in the negotiations said the Afghan Taliban agreed to Pakistan’s demand to stop construction on the disputed checkpoint. A flag meeting between officials of both countries was held before trade resumed.

Customs staff were instructed to return to duty on Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, repair work on the FIA’s container scanner, essential for pedestrian clearance, has begun. Officials said once the system is fully operational, pedestrian movement will also be restored.

With the trade route reopening, bilateral commerce has resumed, and Pakistani cargo trucks have begun entering Afghanistan. Similarly, Afghan trucks carrying imported goods have started crossing into Pakistan. 

Authorities have deployed security and government personnel at the crossing to ensure smooth operations.