A file photo of the Pak-Afghan border. PHOTO: AFP
PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Mahmood Khan has directed to initiate night services at Torkham Border from Monday on a trial basis which will be the first ever attempt to open the Pak Afghan border on a 24/7 basis.
The CM has directed that a comprehensive report in this regard be presented to the chief minister's office adding that the border will be opened formally by Prime Minister Imran Khan soon which would promote regional trade and commerce.
While chairing a review meeting of the arrangements for the opening of the Pak-Afghan border at Torkham 24/7, the CM has directed to ensure all arrangements are in place further directing all concerned departments to undertake maximum efforts to ensure its success.
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The meeting was also attended by Minister Information Shaukat Yousafzai, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Shahab Ali Shah, Khyber Deputy Commissioner, officials of Customs and NLC department and others.
The CM was informed that all arrangements have been finalised including posting of relevant officials whereas currently work is being carried out at the border in two shifts which will be extended to three shifts from Monday next week. The chief minister directed that lighting arrangements should be in place to ensure night time operations at the border. He added that all facilities have been provided by the provincial government and the opening of services at the border 24/7 will be ensured at every cost.
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He also said that surprise night time visits would be held any time after Monday next week to inspect the arrangements first hand. The CM further said that this initiative will promote trade and commerce between the neighbouring countries and also promote regional trade thereby generating high revenue for the country.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 1st, 2019.
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