The Torkham border crossing is at a standstill as hundreds of lorries suffer passengers

 The Torkham border crossing, a key trade and transit route between Afghanistan and Pakistan, came to a standstill, leaving hundreds of trucks and passengers stranded on both sides. The stagnation has fueled fears of economic consequences and a humanitarian crisis unfolding at one of the region's busiest border crossings.

Regional trade backbone:

Located on the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Torkham serves as a lifeline for trade and movement of goods between the two countries. The crossing plays a vital role in facilitating not only bilateral trade but also regional connectivity, connecting landlocked Afghanistan to the Arabian Sea through Pakistani ports. It is an economic artery that provides livelihoods on both sides of the border and contributes significantly to the regional economy.

Long stop:

However, recent events have brought this vital transit point to a halt. The reasons for this sudden cessation of activity are multifaceted and require immediate attention.

First, the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan created an environment of uncertainty and instability. The change in government has led to increased security concerns, making it difficult for goods to move smoothly across borders. Traders and transporters are hesitating because of the unpredictable situation.

Second, bureaucratic and regulatory hurdles have exacerbated the problem. Strict customs and inspection procedures, often exacerbated by corruption, have slowed the processing of goods at the border. This resulted in long queues of trucks waiting for permits, creating a logistical nightmare.

Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in the current crisis. Health and safety measures led to further delays and service disruptions. Testing and quarantine requirements have increased the complexity of cross-border travel and trade, leading to further congestion.

Humanitarian implications:

As trucks and passengers remain stranded at the border, the humanitarian impact is mounting. Truck drivers and their assistants, who often spend days and sometimes weeks at the crossing, face terrible living conditions. The lack of basic amenities, including food, water and sanitation, is an urgent problem. In addition, these long delays have financial implications for shippers and traders, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet.

In addition, the Afghan population living near the Torkham border is heavily dependent on cross-border trade. Disruption of business activities has a direct impact on their income and access to basic goods.

The way forward:

Solving the Torkham border crisis requires a multi-pronged approach.

Security and Stability: Efforts should be made to enhance security and stability in the region. A calm environment is necessary to resume business activities.

Streamlined customs procedures: Simplifying and speeding up customs and inspection processes can help reduce delays and curb corruption at borders.

COVID-19 Protocols: Implementing effective and standardized testing and quarantine procedures for COVID-19 is essential to ensure passenger and merchant safety while minimizing disruption to operations.

Humanitarian aid: Immediate humanitarian aid should be provided to those stranded at the border, including truck drivers and their assistants.

Dialogue and Cooperation: Afghanistan and Pakistan should engage in constructive dialogue to resolve underlying issues and improve cross-border trade relations.

The Torkham border crossing must regain its status as an important trade and transit route for the region. It is imperative that all stakeholders work together to resolve the current crisis and ensure the smooth flow of goods and people through this critical gateway. Failure to do so will have far-reaching consequences not only for Afghanistan and Pakistan, but for the economic stability and well-being of the entire region.