Torkham Reopens, Pakistan–Afghanistan Trade Resumes

DID Press: Reports indicate that commercial activity at the Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has resumed, bringing relief to traders and transport companies following recent disruptions.

According to Pakistan’s Samaa TV, citing border officials, the initial phase includes the movement of food items, commercial goods, and loaded containers from Jamrud toward Afghanistan through the National Logistics Cell (NLC). These shipments constitute part of the first stage of restored cross-border operations.

Deliveries of food assistance have also begun with the participation of the World Food Programme (WFP). Pakistani officials noted that the involvement of international humanitarian agencies underscores the priority placed on meeting Afghanistan’s urgent needs.

Pakistani Border sources confirmed that containers will gradually enter Afghanistan territory after clearance procedures are completed. The phased approach is intended to prevent congestion and ensure smooth traffic at the crossing.

Officials said the formal transfer of humanitarian cargo has started and conditions at the border are expected to improve over the next four days, with volumes of cargo likely to increase. They expressed hope that cross-border trade will be sustainably restored and that coordinated clearance mechanisms will help avoid future disruptions.

Under Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce guidelines, truck movements into Afghanistan are being executed in stages: United Nations food consignments are cleared first, followed by medicines and medical equipment, and then educational supplies for students and teachers along with other essential humanitarian goods.