08 May 2024 | 06:15 AM UTC
Afghanistan, Pakistan: Protests disrupting travel via Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing as of May 8
Protests affecting Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing on Afghanistan, Pakistan border as of May 8. Further clashes, border closure possible.
Activists in Pakistan are reportedly disrupting travel to and across the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, located on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, as of May 8. Demonstrators are blocking the National Highway 25 (N-25) at Khojak Pass in Balochistan Province as of May 8, disrupting an arterial route to the border crossing. The latest move is part of ongoing trader protests since October 2023 to denounce a new visa requirement to enter Afghanistan. Demonstrations have escalated in recent days, with Pakistani officials stating activists have stormed security installations, attacked border guards, and forcibly shut down buildings such as the Chaman Press Club, as well as the passport and customs offices near the border crossing. At least one protester died due to police firing on May 4. Additional protests and sporadic clashes are certain in the coming weeks.
Authorities on both sides of the border will almost certainly maintain heightened security measures, including deploying additional personnel, in the coming days. Shipping and supply chain disruptions are likely, especially if authorities close the border in case of significant clashes or illegal crossing attempts. Traffic disruptions due to blockades are particularly likely to affect highways in, as well as entry and exit points of Chaman District of Pakistan.
The Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing is approximately 100 km (59 miles) southeast of Kandahar city, Afghanistan, and about 100 km (62 miles) northwest of Quetta, Pakistan.
Avoid the area due to possible additional violence. Do not navigate roadblocks due to the threat of violence. Reconfirm the status of the crossing before travel or processing cargo shipments through the area. Seek alternative ground transport routes if border closures or blockades occur. Heed all traffic and security advisories.
