The Torkham crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan has now been closed for 16 consecutive days, causing severe disruptions for drivers, traders, and displaced families. Thousands remain stranded on both sides of the crossing, urging authorities from both nations to resolve the situation as soon as possible.
Mohammad Gul, a driver, spoke about the dire situation, saying, “Hundreds of cargo trucks are stuck here, including transit goods. Some of these items have already perished, causing financial losses for traders. The governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan must find a solution to this problem.”
Another driver, Seyyed Ali, echoed similar concerns, “These trucks carry commercial goods that are deteriorating. Please open the road so that the vehicles can pass.”
The ongoing closure of the crossing has caused not only economic hardship but also a humanitarian crisis. Sporadic clashes between forces of the Islamic Emirate and the Pakistani military have forced hundreds of families to flee their homes, seeking safety from the conflict.
Nasir Ahmad, a displaced resident, said, “We are all one people, and we urge both governments to resolve this issue through dialogue.” Meanwhile, Rahimullah, another displaced resident, added, “Bullets are coming from the other side, and we are forced to flee. We are suffering greatly.”
Azizullah Mustafa, the deputy governor of Nangarhar, provided an update on the situation, noting that local negotiations had failed to yield results, but the central government is now working on finding a solution. He also stated that the situation in the region has stabilized for now, though recent Pakistani military attacks have led to both civilian and Islamic Emirate casualties, as well as financial losses.
Three journalists from Nangarhar were injured during the clashes, and Mustafa confirmed the injuries of eight people, including three journalists, civilians, and soldiers. The violence has also displaced several families, and authorities are providing assistance to those affected.
The Nangarhar Chamber of Commerce and Investment reported that Afghan traders are losing around $500,000 per day due to the closure of the Torkham crossing. The ongoing tensions between the two countries continue to impact both humanitarian and economic activities in the region.
