ANP Leader Asghar Khan Achakzai Calls for Restoration of Trade and Movement at Durand Line
Chaman: Asghar Khan Achakzai, provincial president of the Awami National Party (ANP), has said that the closure of movement and trade at the Durand Line is not an issue of a few individuals but a collective problem affecting millions of people across the Pashtun Afghan region.
Addressing participants of a long-standing protest sit-in near the Durand Line in Chaman, he criticized the use of divisive labels such as “patriot” and “traitor,” adding that new narratives are being created to mislead the public. He also questioned the silence over regional conflicts, saying it should serve as a wake-up call for the people.
The gathering, chaired by Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party central information secretary Isa Roshan, was attended by various political and social leaders, including representatives from the National Democratic Movement and trader unions. Speakers highlighted that worsening law and order, economic decline, and strict restrictions on cross-border movement have pushed the people of Chaman and surrounding areas into severe financial hardship.
They stated that trade—once the primary source of livelihood for locals—has come to a complete halt, leaving thousands of families unemployed and struggling. Markets in the region have also been severely affected, with business activities nearly suspended.
The speakers criticized both federal and provincial governments for their lack of response, saying public grievances are being ignored. They also expressed concern over rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, noting that ordinary citizens bear the brunt of such conflicts.
Highlighting deteriorating security conditions, they warned about increasing incidents of robbery, violence, and targeted killings on highways, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
The speakers demanded the immediate restoration of trade and cross-border movement at the Durand Line, revival of economic activities on both sides, and concrete measures to improve law and order to address the challenges faced by the local population.
