Transporters on Sunday once again blocked the Pakistan-Afghanistan Highway in the Zakha Khel Takia area of Khyber District, disrupting cross-border traffic and trade between the two neighbouring countries. The road had been reopened a day earlier following negotiations between protesters and officials during a tribal jirga. However, according to the district administration, transporters resumed their protest after alleging that key decisions reached during the talks had yet to be implemented. The protesters insisted that the highway would remain closed until their demands were met and all agreements reached during the jirga were fully enforced.
Protesters Demand Venue Change for Talks
The transporters also called for future negotiations to be held in Zakha Khel Takia rather than at government offices, arguing that such a venue would allow all affected stakeholders to participate directly in the discussions. The renewed blockade has led to lengthy queues of cargo vehicles and transport carrying the belongings of repatriating Afghans, causing significant disruption to trade and creating hardships for travellers and businesses on both sides of the border. District authorities and tribal elders are continuing efforts to defuse the situation and restore traffic, although no agreement has yet been reached.
Heat Wave Alert in Abbottabad
In a separate development, Abbottabad has issued a heat wave alert as temperatures soar in the region. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses.
