The Kharlachi terminal on the Pakistan Afghanistan border in Kurram district has remained closed for four weeks, leaving trade activities suspended on both sides and the local population facing mounting hardship.

According to the district administration, the border was shut after attacks from the Afghan side targeted Pakistani areas and border posts. The crossing point has not been reopened since.

Trader representative said that the closure has created serious difficulties for traders and labourers on both sides, while dozens of trucks loaded with food and essential goods are stranded at the border, causing perishable items to spoil.

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He said Afghanistan routinely imported textiles, fruits and dry fruits from Pakistan, while Pakistan exported cement, grains, livestock and other food items to Afghanistan through this route.

Local residents say the shutdown has not only disrupted bilateral trade but also pushed up the prices of essential commodities in both countries.

Traders have urged the government to reopen the Kharlachi border crossing at the earliest so that local businesses and livelihoods can recover.