The trade with Pakistan and Afghanistan through the Torkham border was suspended for the second time because of unsolved restrictions on visas on the transporters who come from both countries. Border officials from both nations have not yet reached an agreement.

In the end there has been no cars permitted to enter the border either way until Saturday. However, pedestrians’ movement has not been restricted. Customs officials have urged that local producers of fruits to transfer their goods to Peshawar in light of the lingering situation.

Pakistan started imposing visa-related restrictions for Afghan drivers with no legitimate travel documents on Saturday the 17th of July, and Afghan Taliban officials have reacted in a similar manner. This has also stopped commerce between the two countries in Kurram’s Kharlaachi cross-border crossing located in Kurram and has caused financial loss to local transporters and traders.

The President of the Torkham Custom Clearing Agents Association, Aimal Shinwari, highlighted the risks for exporters of fruits and vegetables due to the nature of perishable of their products. This is also leading to substantial daily losses in the financial accounts of the exchequer of the country.

The sudden introduction the visa restriction has led to delays across the border, and trapped hundreds of trailers and container trucks loaded with Pakistani export products.

Customs officers are currently talking to higher officials in Islamabad to address the issue with visas to Afghan transporters as quickly as they can.

Source: dawn.com