The Balochistan government on Sunday dismissed social media rumours about the closure of the Pakistan-Iran border, saying the step is meant to address security threats, curb smuggling and strengthen border management.
Shahid Rind, adviser to the Balochistan chief minister, said in a statement that the shutdown was needed to deal with security concerns, stop illicit trade and improve how the frontier is run. He said officials from both countries were making positive headway on administrative issues through talks.
Coordinated system planned for border management
Rind said a coordinated mechanism was being developed to improve border affairs, prevent smuggling and maintain law and order. “In view of the current progress, the Pakistan-Iran border is likely to reopen soon,” he said.
He added that effective management would help control unrest in border areas and create room to offer traders better facilities. He urged the public not to act on unverified information circulating online.
Trade disruption and stranded trucks at the crossing
The Quetta Chamber of Commerce had earlier said the closure disrupted trade, leaving goods-laden trucks stuck on both sides. It warned that the abrupt move by the federal government would cause financial losses, noting that about 2,000 trucks travelling between Iran and Pakistan were stranded.
Chamber officials said traders dealing with Iran had been advised to hold off on new purchases amid uncertainty. They added that the commerce ministry had told traders to temporarily stop new bookings for goods imported from Iran.
