The second day of a sit-in by traders and transporters at the Torkham border crossing is underway. Leaders from the Customs Private Clearance Agents Association and the Transporters Union are also participating.
Call for Relaxation in Temporary Entry Documents TorkhamÂ
This time around, they requested both Pakistan and Afghanistan to ease the issuance of temporary entry papers for cargo vehicles. They aired their grievances over what they termed the lack of these documents. Which has led to thousands of trucks remaining grounded on either side of the Torkham border for more than one month now.
Trade and Transport Hard-Hit TorkhamÂ
They noted that the problem has affected their businesses so much that no more money is coming into their pockets because goods are also not being sold. The delay in ferrying merchandise across borders has brought about massive financial losses. Which could have been avoided had it not been for unnecessary bureaucracy at customs. According to them, this impasse disrupts trade between Afghanistan and Pakistan through the Torkham border as well as injures the livelihoods of many people who depend on that route, especially workers;
Immediate Need for Action
The demonstrators have called upon relevant authorities to resolve this issue once. And for all since they are tired of waiting longer without getting solutions. They want an immediate system change. Where temporary entry documents should be issued flexibly so that smooth movement flow can be achieved. While transporting goods via trucks across international boundaries. Their demands will only stop after fulfillment by concerned parties together with an amicable solution reached between two conflicting sides regarding the current situation at hand;
Wider Ramifications On Trade Regionally This ongoing event reveals broader problems faced by traders plus transporters within the region. Who feel frustrated due to frequent bureaucracies encountered during cross-border activities. Thereby discouraging business growth among nations involved themselves. Hence affecting many lives negatively. And thus need urgent redressal otherwise. Peace may never prevail between countries like Afghanistan & Pakistan sharing common boundary areas mainly used for commercial purposes between them.
