The All Torkham Clearing Agents’ Association on Thursday called on the government to immediately reopen the Torkham border for commercial traffic, warning that the prolonged closure had inflicted severe losses on cross-border trade and the livelihoods of thousands of people.
Press Conference Demands
Addressing a press conference at the Khyber Press Club, Association President Mujeeb Shinwari said clearing agents, traders and transporters had endured heavy financial losses over the past nine months in the national interest, but the continued suspension of trade had become unsustainable. He described Torkham as one of Pakistan’s most important trade gateways, saying repeated border closures had disrupted the operations of importers, exporters, clearing agents, transporters and thousands of workers who depend on cross-border commerce.
Economic Impact
Flanked by Torkham Transport Union leader Azeemullah and other representatives, Mr Shinwari claimed that the border generated around $2.5 million in daily export-related revenue and approximately Rs540 million from imports. He further claimed that nearly 90 per cent of the local economy depended on border trade, leaving transporters, property owners, daily wage earners and small shopkeepers struggling to earn a livelihood during the closure.
Urgent Appeal and Protest Threat
The association urged the federal and provincial governments to reopen the border for trade without further delay, announce a relief package for affected traders and compensate more than 40 clearing agents whose offices were allegedly damaged during clashes at the border. Mr Shinwari warned that if the authorities failed to address these demands, the association, in consultation with local elders and political representatives, would launch an indefinite sit-in protest.
Condolences
At the conclusion of the press conference, participants expressed sorrow over the death of Senator Taj Muhammad Afridi and offered prayers for the departed soul.
