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Protesters Demand Reopening of Torkham Border, Cite "Economic Murder"

Protesters in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have staged a demonstration demanding the immediate reopening of the Torkham border with Afghanistan. Organizers called the nearly three-month closure an "economic murder" of thousands of tribesmen who rely on cross-border trade. They warned the closure has turned the bustling economic hub into a ghost town, forcing families into poverty and debt. The protesters urged for trade to be separated from political issues and for tribal representatives to be included in future dialogues.

Key Points: Torkham Border Closure Sparks Protest Over "Economic Murder"

  • Protest over Torkham border closure
  • Closure called "economic murder"
  • Cross-border trade at a standstill
  • Demand inclusion in peace talks
2 min read

Pakistan: Protesters demand immediate reopening of the Torkham border

Protesters in Pakistan demand immediate reopening of the Torkham border with Afghanistan, calling the 3-month closure an "economic murder" of tribesmen.

"economic murder of thousands of people - Protest Speakers"

Torkham, January 5

People from different segments of society staged a protest in the Landi Kotal region of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demanding the immediate reopening of the Torkham border, Dawn reported.

According to Dawn, the protest was organised under the banner of the All Borders Coordinators Council on Sunday.

The protest brought together traders, transporters, tribal elders, daily wagers, political activists, and members of civil society.

The gathering attracted representatives of multiple organisations and groups directly affected by the closure of borders with Afghanistan since October 12.

Dawn reported that prominent speakers at the event included Malak Roohullah Wazir, Malak Masal Khan, Shah Hussain, Zarbullah Khan, Maulana Shoaib, Murad Hussain, Mujeebullah Shinwari, Qari Nazeemullah, Shah Khalid, and Mirajuddin Khan.

According to reports, the speakers described the nearly three-month closure as "economic murder" of thousands of people, mostly tribesmen, who rely entirely on cross-border trade for their livelihoods.

They said the Torkham border has historically been an important gateway for trade with Central Asia, serving as a bustling economic hub supporting thousands of families.

The closure, they said, has turned the area into a ghost town, with all commercial activity at a standstill, Dawn reported.

The speakers told Dawn that while thousands of individuals lost jobs and businesses, hundreds of families now face extreme poverty, with many forced to take loans for survival.

They urged neighbouring countries to separate bilateral trade from political and security issues and allow citizens to travel freely across the border.

Dawn reported that the protesters also demanded the inclusion of influential tribal elders and trade representatives in future Pak-Afghan peace and trade dialogues, noting that these groups have historically played a role in resolving disputes.

They called for fostering mutual respect and harmony between the two countries, warning that current hostility had damaged historically brotherly relations.

The Torkham border, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is one of the busiest crossing points between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

It serves as a crucial trade gateway for goods travelling to and from Central Asia.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's heartbreaking to read about families forced into poverty. Borders should connect, not divide. The economic impact on thousands is real. Perhaps both governments can create a special humanitarian corridor for essential trade? 🤔
R
Rohit P
Security concerns are paramount, especially with the situation in Afghanistan. But "economic murder" is a strong term—it shows how desperate things are. India has also faced challenges with border closures. A balanced approach is needed.
S
Sarah B
The call to separate trade from politics is wise. Ordinary citizens should not suffer for geopolitical disputes. The region's economic integration is crucial for development. Hope the voices of tribal elders are heard in the dialogue.
V
Vikram M
As an Indian, I understand border sensitivities well. But a ghost town? That's tragic. Trade routes like these have historical significance for the entire subcontinent. Stability in our neighborhood benefits everyone. Let's hope for peace and open borders.
M
Michael C
While the protesters' economic plight is valid, the article doesn't detail *why* the border closed in October. Security protocols exist for a reason. A lasting solution requires addressing the root causes of the closure, not just reopening the gate.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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