PAKISTAN has always shown extraordinary generosity and open
heartedness towards Afghan people. A day after Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed commitment to support people of Afghanistan regardless of challenge posed by Corona Virus, Chaman border was reopened on Saturday allowing transportation of essential food items including vegetables and fresh fruits to neighbouring country.
Afghanistan is highly dependent on imported goods and closure of borders with Pakistan and Iran after surge in Corona Virus cases had created a panic amongst Afghans about shortage of food items. They were seen rushing to markets to stock up food items. In this backdrop, PM took a difficult decision to partially open Chaman border so that essential food supplies could be transported to the country to avoid shortage. This indeed is a reflection of brotherhood to Afghan people. Nonetheless, the situation arising out of Corona Virus warrants that border opening is not exploited and only used for transportation of essential items and not for movement of common people. Otherwise it will have disastrous consequences for both the countries. The containers returning from Afghanistan should be thoroughly checked to discourage such movement, and most importantly drivers of trucks and their helpers should also be properly screened on their return from Afghanistan and if required be kept in isolation for the specific period.
Since Corona Virus tally is rising each day, it is important that federal and provincial governments continue to work in close coordination to ensure smooth and sufficient supplies of essential items in all cities and far-flung areas of Pakistan while staying on guard against hoarders and profiteers who always exploit such kind of situations. This is most crucial time and relevant authorities should do the needful to avoid any sort of panicking in general public.
