Afghanistan recently closed the Torkham border crossing with Pakistan inresponse to Pakistan’s imposition of visa requirements for Afghan drivers.Consequently, trade activities between the two nations have come to astandstill.
Pakistan declared that Afghan drivers must obtain visas to enter itsterritory, leading to the blocking of truck entry at the border. Despitethis restriction, ordinary citizens are still permitted to cross with avalid visa. However, numerous Afghan drivers reported facing challenges inobtaining visas, adversely impacting their businesses and livelihoods.
Some drivers, like Rahatullah, shared their experiences of visa applicationrejection, highlighting the hurdles they encounter. Rehmanullah Atmanzaimentioned paying fees for a visa that he had yet to receive, emphasizingthe financial strain on drivers.
In response to these difficulties, many Afghan drivers resort toclandestine travel within Pakistan without proper visas, engaging in dailyactivities like praying and eating discreetly. They also find themselvescompelled to pay additional money to Pakistani citizens for food.
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Expressing their frustrations, Atmanzai emphasized that having a visa wouldalleviate the need to hide and live in fear while in Pakistan. He proposeda practical solution, suggesting that visas be issued at the border ratherthan requiring a visit to the embassy.
This incident marks a recurring closure of the Torkham border crossing,underscoring the ongoing challenges and tensions between Afghanistan andPakistan.