Major progress made in return of 1,600 Pakistani transporters stranded in Afghanistan

PESHAWAR, Jun 09 (APP):A meeting chaired by Commissioner Peshawar Division, Riaz Khan Mehsud on Tuesday made a significant progress toward the safe return of approximately 1,600 Pakistani transporters stranded in Afghanistan for nearly eight months.

According to the Commissioner Office, this important meeting was held to discuss the repatriation of Pakistani transporters and their vehicles stranded in Afghanistan, improve cross-border transport management and facilitate transporters traveling daily between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The meeting was attended by Afghan Consul General Hafiz Mohibullah, Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Arif of the Frontier Corps, Deputy Commissioner Khyber Captain (Retd.) Bilal Rao, representatives of the Transport Association and relevant officials.

Participants reviewed the challenges faced by Pakistani transporters involved in the repatriation of Afghan refugees, with particular focus on ensuring their dignified, safe and timely return from Afghanistan.

Concern was expressed over the difficulties faced by nearly 1,600 Pakistani vehicles, drivers and conductors who have remained stranded across the border.

Following consultations, it was decided to introduce new operating hours at the Torkham border crossing to streamline transportation activities. Under the new arrangement, Pakistani transporters returning from Afghanistan will be facilitated from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., while vehicles traveling from Pakistan to Afghanistan will be allowed to cross between 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Addressing the meeting, Commissioner Riaz Khan Mahsud directed the Deputy Commissioner of Khyber District to convene a joint meeting of all departments concerned to ensure the immediate implementation of the decisions and the new border management system.

The Commissioner emphasized that the government is utilizing all available resources to ensure the protection, convenience and dignified return of Pakistani transporters and remains in continuous coordination with Afghan authorities and relevant institutions.

Representatives of the Transport Association expressed satisfaction with the measures being taken for the return of stranded transporters and assured the administration of their full cooperation in implementing the agreed arrangements.