KURRAM: The Pak-Afghan Kharlachi border crossing that connects Kurram district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Afghanistan’s eastern Paktia province has remained closed for bilateral trade and other economic activities for the past five and half months.
Officials say that before the closure, over 350 vehicles crossed the border daily, facilitating trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Imports from Afghanistan included coal, fruits, dry fruits, and vegetables. In return, Pakistan exported sugar, wheat, retail goods, cement, and other essential items.
The prolonged closure has caused traders to suffer losses worth billions of rupees. Business leaders in Parachinar have urged authorities to reopen the border to revive trade.
“The border’s reopening is crucial for economic stability and regional peace,” said the local trade union.
Afghan officials stated that the border would reopen as soon as the Pakistani government issues an order.
It is pertinent to mention here that the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan also remained closed for bilateral trade activities and pedestrian for the 17th consecutive day.
Also Read: Torkham tension: first round of ‘Loya Jirga’ concludes, pledging border ceasefire
The Torkham border, which connects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan with Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province, was shut on February 21 evening following a disputed construction near the zero point on the Afghanistan side.
