RASC News Agency: Local sources in Nangarhar province report that Pakistan’s border forces have once again closed the gate of the Torkham crossing for cargo vehicles. According to media sources, the closure of this border crossing for truck traffic commenced at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 6th. The official reason for this closure has not been stated, but it’s worth noting that this crossing experienced a closure lasting nearly 20 hours previously.
During the prior closure, the Taliban group asserted that Pakistani border forces demanded visas and passports from drivers as the reason behind it. Historically, trucks and commercial cargoes traveled without these documents. The Torkham border crossing, a pivotal passage in the country, has frequently faced blockages for the movement of trucks and passengers due to conflicts between Pakistani border forces and the Taliban group.
The closure of this crossing for cargo vehicles will undoubtedly pose challenges for traders relying on this route, potentially causing damage to their businesses. It is crucial to mention that the Taliban group has historically maintained relatively positive relations with Pakistan. However, recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan have strained the relationship between the two sides. Additionally, deteriorating relations between the Taliban group and the Pakistani government have led to the forced deportation of over one million Afghanistani immigrants from Pakistan. The closure of Torkham has raised concerns among both drivers and passengers, urging Pakistani authorities to take prompt action and address this pressing issue.