In the most significant development since the Pak-Afghan peace agreement in Doha, the Pak-Afghan border at Chaman has been partially reopened, offering a glimmer of hope for stalled commercial activities, though restrictions for the general public remain.
According to local sources, the reopening allows empty Afghan transit trade vehicles and trucks to enter Pakistan from Afghanistan. Additionally, refugees being sent from Pakistan to Afghanistan have also been permitted to cross. However, the border remains closed for all pedestrian movement.
A large number of vehicles are reportedly entering Pakistan at the Chaman crossing. In a significant policy shift, authorities have now made passports and visas mandatory for all Afghan drivers.
Muhammad Sadiq, President of the Chaman Traders Association, confirmed to Geo News that the permission granted for vehicles is currently “temporary.”
Media reports indicate the Spin Boldak crossing has been reopened specifically for commercial activities. Sources suggest that due to “sensitive issues,” the resumption of general pedestrian traffic has not yet been approved, leaving families and laborers on both sides of the border in a state of uncertainty.
