ISLAMABAD (Rizwan Abbasi): In view of the tense situation with Afghanistan, Pakistan has closed the border crossing points of Torkham and Chaman for an indefinite period from October 12, due to which Afghan transit trade has been severely affected.
In this regard, an important letter has been sent by the Directorate General of Transit Trade Customs House Karachi to the Chief Operations FBR, a copy of which has been obtained by ABN News.
According to the letter, the processing of transit consignments going to Afghanistan has been temporarily stopped, which will remain suspended until the border operation is fully restored.
According to the document, this step has been taken to avoid rush at border stations, possible obstacles and to ensure the safety of bonded goods.
The letter states that consultations have also been held with port terminal operators, bonded carriers, Afghan clearing agents and tracking companies in this regard.
It has been further stated that the border crossing points at Torkham and Chaman have been closed for all commercial activities, as a result of which hundreds of transit vehicles going to Afghanistan have been stranded at the border.
The letter states that these vehicles are equipped with modern tracking and monitoring systems, including tracking devices and RFID cells.
However, due to limited parking facilities at the border terminals, there is severe congestion and obstruction.
The authorities have warned that in case of prolonged parking or unnecessary obstruction, the risk of theft of devices, tampering with cells, and loss of bonded goods increases.
The letter also states that the capacity of vehicles at the border terminals is decreasing due to disruptions in the transit system.
Till yesterday, 357 vehicles had reached Chaman crossing points and 105 at Torkham, while 85 vehicles towards Chaman and 37 vehicles towards Torkham are still en route.
Relevant authorities say that as soon as the security situation improves, steps will be taken to restore transit trade.
