In a significant humanitarian move, Pakistan temporarily reopened the Chaman border on Monday, facilitating the return of around 200 Afghan families who were illegally residing in various cities and towns across Balochistan. The crossing was opened for a limited time, following several days of border closure caused by recent tensions.
The Chaman border reopening allowed women, children, and elderly refugees to return to Afghanistan with their belongings, marking a peaceful repatriation under the supervision of Pakistani authorities.
Humanitarian Effort Amid Tensions
According to local officials, the Bab-e-Dosti (Friendship Gate) had been closed after clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces, leaving hundreds of Afghan nationals stranded at the border.
“We opened the Bab-e-Dosti gate at around 3 PM for Afghan families to return home. All were sent back with full respect and dignity,” said Deputy Commissioner Chaman Habibullah Bangalzai.
The border remained open for two and a half hours, during which approximately 200 Afghan families crossed back into Afghanistan peacefully.
Trade and Transit Remain Suspended
Despite the temporary border opening for refugees, all trade, transit, and cross-border movement remain suspendeduntil further notice. The suspension affects:
-
Import/export trucks
-
Afghan transit trade
-
Fresh produce and cargo transport
-
Pedestrian and passport-based travel
Relocation and Relief Measures
With hundreds of vehicles stuck at both sides of the border, Pakistani authorities relocated trucks and transport to designated parking areas in Chaman. Afghan refugees awaiting repatriation were moved to temporary camps, where they were provided:
-
Food and clean drinking water
-
Shelter and sanitation facilities
-
Medical support, if needed
Local administration ensured that all humanitarian needs were met.
Peace Maintained in Border Regions
No untoward incidents were reported in Chaman, Qila Abdullah, Bubandi, Badini, Zhob, or Baramcha (District Chagai). Authorities confirmed that the situation remains calm and that security forces are on high alert across all sensitive border points in Balochistan.
-
