The vital Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains shut for the tenth consecutive day, causing significant disruption to trade and travel. Long lines of cargo trucks continue to pile up on both sides as authorities await a resolution to the standoff.

Customs officials in Pakistan confirmed that their personnel have been actively deployed at the Torkham terminal, with scanners and other facilities in place to resume operations as soon as clearance is granted. Despite the readiness, movement remains halted, causing frustration among traders and transporters.

“We’ve ensured that our systems are fully operational. Our teams are present at the terminal and scanners are functional to handle cargo clearance swiftly when the border reopens,” a senior customs officer stated.

Afghan customs officials have also confirmed the presence of their staff on the Afghan side, signaling a willingness to cooperate once the political and security situation stabilizes.

The trade route was abruptly closed during the night between October 11 and 12, following unprovoked firing from Afghan forces. Since then, all kinds of movement—commercial and pedestrian—have been suspended.

The prolonged closure of one of the region’s busiest trade gateways has led to mounting concerns over economic losses, perishable goods going to waste, and rising tensions among business communities.

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Officials from both countries have yet to announce a timeline for reopening the border, but stakeholders hope for a diplomatic breakthrough to restore normalcy and ensure uninterrupted cross-border trade.