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Torkham Border Reopens for Repatriation of Undocumented Afghans
Torkham border in Khyber reopens today for repatriation of undocumented Afghans; first batch of 220 returned after security assurances.
ND
by News Desk
2026-03-31
Torkham Border Reopens for Repatriation of Undocumented Afghans

The Torkham border was reopened on Tuesday for the repatriation of undocumented Afghans, following a brief suspension triggered by a security incident.

The frontier, linking KP with Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province, was initially opened last Thursday after a month-long closure due to Operation Ghazab lil-Haq. However, the process was halted just 12 hours later when a Pakistani security official was injured by firing from the Afghan side.

Officials said Afghan authorities expressed regret for the incident after Pakistan lodged strong protests. Subsequent security meetings and flag meetings on Monday and Tuesday led to an agreement to resume repatriation under a coordinated mechanism.

The first batch of around 220 Afghans returned to their country at approximately 11 a.m., under the supervision of Wing Commander Officer Lt Col Waqas of 146 Wing and Torkham Terminal OIC Major Hafiz Asadullah. Officials highlighted that this was the first instance of security personnel from both sides meeting since October 12 last year, demonstrating mutual goodwill.

Meanwhile, transporters whose vehicles and drivers have been stranded in Afghanistan since the border closure staged a demonstration in Landi Kotal. They reported around 2,000 vehicles and 1,500 drivers trapped across the border, causing financial losses and stress to families.

Officials assured that the new arrangements would prevent future violations and facilitate smooth operations at the Torkham crossing, ensuring the safe return of stranded people and vehicles while restoring peace along the border.
Tagged:

Afghanistan

KP

torkham

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