Khyber - The first batch of Pakistani transit trucks stranded in Afghanistan for nearly eight months crossed back into Pakistan through the Torkham border crossing on Thursday, bringing relief to transporters and the families of affected drivers.
Return of Stranded Trucks
According to transporters, two empty container trucks entered Pakistan at noon after remaining stuck on the Afghan side of the border due to prolonged restrictions and repeated closures that disrupted cross-border movement. The return of the vehicles was welcomed by transport operators, who described it as a significant breakthrough after months of uncertainty and financial hardship for truck owners and drivers.
Warm Welcome at Torkham
Office-bearers of transport unions received the returning drivers at Torkham, presenting them with flower garlands and congratulating them on their safe return. Speaking on the occasion, transporters expressed hope that the remaining Pakistani vehicles stranded in Afghanistan would also be allowed to return without further delay.
Urgent Call for Clearance
They urged the authorities on both sides of the border to expedite the clearance process and facilitate the repatriation of all trucks and drivers awaiting permission to cross. Transport representatives said hundreds of Pakistani vehicles had remained stranded for months, causing substantial financial losses to transport owners and disrupting commercial activities linked to cross-border trade.
Optimism for Resolution
They described the arrival of the first batch of trucks as an encouraging development and expressed optimism that the longstanding difficulties faced by the transport sector would soon be resolved through continued cooperation between the relevant authorities.
