Local sources in Torkham have reported that Pakistani authorities have issued announcements at the border crossing, stating that after March 31, Afghan patients and drivers will not be allowed entry into the country without a visa.
These announcements are being distributed in both Pashto and Urdu languages.
Torkham is one of the busiest routes for traders and people, especially patients.
The decision by Pakistan marks the end of a period during which travellers could cross the border with other documents, such as agreements from the British Indian passport era and national identity cards.
Pakistani sources in Torkham informed the Pashto section of Afghanistan International that Pakistan will enforce the visa requirement for Afghan patients and drivers.
Previously, Pakistan had made at least three attempts to condition the crossing of Afghan patients and drivers on having a Pakistani visa, however, it has not been successfully implemented.
According to information received by Afghanistan International, Pakistani authorities held a meeting in Torkham three days ago to implement their recent decision.
Afghan drivers in Torkham told the Pashto section of Afghanistan International that the visa requirement would pose a problem for them.
A source told Afghanistan International, "Obtaining a Pakistani visa is quite challenging these days. On one hand, trade condition is not favourable and on the other hand, visa conditions are adding to the hardships.”
