Representatives of local transporters expressed frustration over the continued suspension of the repatriation of more than 800 Pakistani trucks that have been stranded in Afghanistan for the past eight months, despite assurances from authorities that the process would resume earlier this month.
Press Conference in Landi Kotal
Addressing a news conference at the District Press Club in Landi Kotal on Tuesday, Rehman Zeb, accompanied by his colleagues, said that a meeting held at the office of the Commissioner Peshawar last week, attended by administrative officials, security personnel, Afghan Consulate representatives, and other relevant authorities, had decided that the return of the stranded vehicles through the Torkham border crossing would begin at 8:00 a.m. on June 11, 2026.
Halt in Movement
However, transporters claimed that the movement of the trucks was once again halted for unknown reasons. They said Pakistani security officials at Torkham had informed them that Afghan authorities had stopped the entry of the stranded trucks into Pakistan. As a result, hundreds of vehicles remain stuck across the border, causing mounting financial losses for transporters.
Call for Negotiation
The transporters emphasized that if complex international disputes can be resolved through negotiations, the longstanding issue of stranded vehicles between the two neighbouring countries should also be settled through mutual understanding and cooperation. Appealing to Pakistani and Afghan authorities, the transporters called for the immediate return of the stranded empty trucks to Pakistan, saying the prolonged delay has created serious economic hardships for drivers, vehicle owners, and their families.
