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Crisis: Torkham Border Closure Paralyzes Vital Pakistan-Afghanistan Trade

Crisis: Torkham Border Closure Paralyzes Vital Pakistan-Afghanistan Trade
border
trade
security
Key Points
  • Critical trade route closed since February 21 over infrastructure dispute
  • 3,200+ commercial vehicles stranded with perishable cargo
  • Families enduring sub-zero temperatures without shelter
  • 15% weekly trade loss between Central Asia and South Asia
  • Security concerns escalate amid TTP militant activity

The indefinite shutdown of Torkham crossing has created a humanitarian and economic emergency across South-Central Asia. With temperatures plunging to -6°C (21°F), stranded drivers report rapidly deteriorating conditions for both personnel and temperature-sensitive cargo...

Industry analysts confirm the closure disrupts a $28 million weekly trade corridor, particularly impacting Pakistan's cement exports and Afghanistan's fresh produce imports. This isn't just bilateral damage,explains trade economist Farhana Shah. Central Asian states lose 22% of their South Asian textile imports through this route annually.

The current crisis stems from disputed construction activities along the 2,640km Durand Line - a border Afghanistan never formally recognized. While Pakistan completes its $532 million border fencing project, Kabul continues challenging territorial claims through infrastructure development...

Regional security experts warn of compounding risks. Border closures directly benefit militant groups,says Peshawar-based analyst Kamran Afridi. The TTP exploits transport chaos to move personnel - security forces are stretched thin managing both trade routes and counterterror ops.

Stranded driver Mohammad Yasin shared his ordeal: My apples from Gilgit-Baltistan now rot in containers. I've slept 6 nights in my truck cab, burning packing crates for warmth.Over 47% of stranded vehicles carry perishables according to Joint Chamber estimates...