Pakistan: Officials suspend commercial movement at Taftan border crossing as of Aug. 2

Event

Pakistani officials have suspended the commercial channel at the border checkpoint in Taftan, Chagai District, Balochistan, as of Aug. 2. Passenger movement in the area is also likely restricted. The reason for the closure and the duration of the suspension are not immediately clear. Authorities did not confirm if there would be any exemptions to the policy. The checkpoint borders Mirjaveh County in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Iran.

Authorities will probably maintain heightened security measures, including setting up roadblocks and deploying additional personnel, around the checkpoint. Transport and business disruptions are likely. Businesses that transport goods through the checkpoint will probably face shipping delays. Local reports suggest that residents may stage demonstrations near the checkpoint and on nearby highways to demand the government reopen the border. Clashes between demonstrators and security personnel could occur.

The affected area is around 90 km (56 miles) southeast of Zahedan, Iran, and 430 km (267 miles) north-northwest of Gwadar, Pakistan.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all goods transport arrangements. Plan for disruptions and ground shipping delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo. Avoid any protests as a precaution.