Trade activities between Pakistan and Afghanistan have resumed at the Torkham border, bringing relief to traders and transporters after disruptions.
According to border sources, food items, goods, and loaded containers were sent toward Afghanistan from Jamrud through the National Logistics Cell. The consignments were moved as part of the initial phase of resumed cross-border activity.
Food items were also dispatched to Afghanistan with the participation of the World Food Program. Officials said the involvement of international humanitarian organizations highlights the focus on relief and essential supplies.
Border sources confirmed that containers will begin entering Afghanistan following full clearance at the Torkham border. The clearance process is being carried out in stages to ensure smooth movement.
First phase of relief delivery begins
The process of delivering relief goods has officially started in the first phase, according to border officials. They said the gradual approach will help stabilize trade flows and manage congestion at the crossing point.
Also Read: Pakistan opens Torkham, Chaman borders for UN aid to Afghanistan
Sources added that the border situation is expected to further improve over the next four days. Increased movement of goods and containers is anticipated as coordination improves between both sides.
Trade to be restored permanently
Border officials expressed optimism that Pak-Afghan border trade will be restored on a permanent basis. They said sustained cooperation and clearance mechanisms are expected to prevent future disruptions.
Earlier this month, the Pakistan government opened the Torkham and Chaman trade crossings to facilitate urgent delivery of food, medicine, and essential relief supplies to Afghanistan, responding to a humanitarian appeal from the United Nations.
The decision was taken on humanitarian grounds following a request from the UN. In consultation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce issued formal instructions to Member Customs, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the Directorate General of Transit.
Phased clearance plan for UN humanitarian cargo
The Ministry of Commerce directed authorities to facilitate the movement of cargo vehicles into Afghanistan in carefully organized phases. According to the notification, containers carrying food items from UN agencies will be cleared first; the second phase will clear containers holding medicines and medical equipment, essential for Afghanistan’s strained healthcare system.
The third phase will clear containers carrying kits for students and teachers, along with other essential humanitarian items.
