Afghanistan: Afghan Taliban officials reportedly suspend passenger movement through Torkham border crossing as of Sept. 14

Event

Afghan Taliban officials have reportedly suspended passenger movement through the Torkham border checkpoint in Nangarhar Province as of Sept. 14. The checkpoint borders Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in northern Pakistan. Reports indicate that Afghan Taliban officials closed the border to protest the Pakistani authorities' decision to not allow Afghan nationals to cross through Torkham. It is unclear whether the policy also affects goods transport or how long it will be in place.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security measures, including setting up roadblocks and stationing additional personnel, around the checkpoint. Transport and business disruptions are also likely. Businesses that transport goods through the checkpoint may face shipping delays. People affected by the closure may stage protests near the border crossing.

The affected area is around 69 km (43 miles) east-southeast of Jalalabad, Afghanistan, and about 47 km (29 miles) west-northwest of Peshawar, Pakistan.

Advice

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