The Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan reopened Saturday to allow the return of Afghan migrants who are deported from the neighboring country, more than three weeks after it was sealed following deadly border clashes between Taliban and Pakistani forces. However, the key transit point remains closed to trade convoys, regular travelers, and medical patients.
Sources confirmed to Amu that while returning Afghan nationals are now being allowed to cross, all other forms of movement — including commercial shipments and passenger travel — remain suspended.
The crossing was shut in early October after an eight-day flare-up of armed clashes between the two sides. Since then, it has remained closed, disrupting trade and leaving thousands of travelers, patients, and transporters stranded on both sides.
Traders say the extended closure has led to significant financial losses. Hundreds of trucks carrying perishable goods such as fruit and vegetables have been stuck at the border, with many reporting their cargo is now spoiled.
The disruption has also affected patients from Afghanistan who had scheduled treatments in Pakistani hospitals. Many have waited for weeks near the crossing, often without shelter, clean water, or adequate medical care.
The Taliban’s envoy in Islamabad recently said that nearly 10,000 Afghans are currently held in Pakistani jails or detention centers, amid an intensified crackdown by Pakistan on undocumented foreigners. Pakistani authorities say the deportations are aimed at enforcing immigration laws and national security, not targeting a specific nationality.
Islamabad has yet to issue an official statement about when the Torkham crossing will fully reopen. Taliban officials continue to call on Pakistan to restore cross-border trade and allow for what they describe as the “dignified and orderly” return of Afghan nationals.
Until then, the partial reopening offers only limited relief to thousands affected by the prolonged closure.
