The Chaman–Spin Boldak border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been partially reopened for trade, sources confirmed on Monday.
The move comes as Pakistan continues its large-scale operation to repatriate Afghan refugees, with over 67,000 returned this month alone and strict deadlines set for complete eviction by November 18.
Chaman border partially reopens for trade
According to official sources, the Chaman border has been opened temporarily for trade-related movement between the two neighbouring countries. However, the border remains closed to general public foot traffic due to sensitive security concerns.
Officials handling trade clearance and customs operations on both sides have reached the crossing point to supervise controlled movement. For now, only empty trucks are being allowed to cross into Afghanistan, and Afghan drivers must possess valid passports and visas.
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Sources added that the Torkham border is expected to reopen tomorrow under similar conditions, following a formal communication sent to the Afghan Embassy in Islamabad.
Meanwhile, the remaining three border corridors — Ghulam Khan, Angoor Adda, and Kharlachi — will stay inactive until further notice.
Trucks carrying Afghan refugees allowed entry
Trucks transporting Afghan refugees have been granted permission to enter Pakistan through the Chaman border as part of the ongoing repatriation operation. However, officials clarified that regular trade and pedestrian crossings remain suspended at this stage.
Afghan refugee repatriation accelerates across Pakistan
Authorities have intensified the process of sending Afghan nationals back home following the closure of refugee camps in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In October alone, 67,601 Afghan citizens have been repatriated, including 2,056 on October 19.
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Cumulative figures show that more than 1.4 million Afghan refugees have returned so far, including 163,000 Proof of Registration (POR) card-holders and 80,000 Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders.
Azad Kashmir sets Nov 18 deadline
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), authorities have issued a strict order mandating the return of all Afghan citizens by November 18. The Police Department, along with the CTD and Special Branch, has been tasked with compiling lists of Afghan refugees to ensure full compliance.
According to the police letter, officers found negligent in implementing the eviction orders may face disciplinary action or dismissal. Officials reiterated that illegal foreigners will be forcibly evicted if they remain in AJK after the deadline.
Arrests after attack on police in Islamabad
In a separate development, 17 Afghan nationals were arrested in Islamabad’s Bari Imam area after allegedly attacking police officers during an operation. The clash left four officials injured, including an SHO and a lady constable, according to the police spokesperson.
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Authorities confirmed that the arrested individuals will be deported, adding that strict legal action has been initiated.
End of four-decade-long hosting era
Pakistan’s decades-long hospitality toward millions of Afghan refugees is gradually coming to an end. Officials described the ongoing campaign as the “honourable and organized return” of Afghan citizens to their homeland, emphasizing that the repatriation process will continue until all illegal residents have left the country.
