KABUL — The closure of the Torkham border crossing has entered its 24th day, with no resolution in sight as talks between the Taliban and Pakistan remain stalled.
The Taliban, after skipping a second round of talks with tribal elders and business representatives, have emphasized resolving the issue through diplomatic channels. Pakistan, meanwhile, has made reopening the border conditional on the Taliban halting the construction of military installations in the disputed area.
Meanwhile, thousands of stranded drivers and travelers on both sides of the border are growing increasingly desperate, calling for the immediate reopening of the critical crossing. Informal negotiations through tribal jirgas have yet to yield results, and formal discussions between Islamabad and the Taliban have not yet begun.
As the deadlock continues, economic losses are mounting. Hundreds of trucks carrying commercial goods remain stuck at the border, worsening the financial toll on both sides.
“We’ve been stranded here for days with no hope of the border reopening,” said Jawad, a truck driver at Torkham. “We’ve spent all our money on food and essentials, and now we have nothing left.”
Others describe deteriorating conditions, with food and water supplies running low.
“The situation worsens every day,” said another driver, Mohammad. “There’s no food or water, and we have no choice but to travel to Peshawar for basic necessities. The border must reopen soon to end this crisis.”
The financial impact of the closure has been severe, with losses amounting to millions of dollars.
“The prolonged shutdown of Torkham has caused significant economic damage on both sides,” said economic analyst Shabbir Bashiri. “The only solution is for both parties to reach a strategic agreement to prevent further losses.”
The World Food Programme has also raised concerns, stating that thousands of trucks carrying food aid and commercial goods remain stuck at the crossing.
