In a report released at a news conference in Bokhtar, Khatlon Customs Directorate Head Zafar Mahmadiyev revealed on February 9 that Tajik drivers are satisfied with the work of the Taliban customs officers.
From the time the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan and until January 1, 2022, 5,760 trucks proceeded through the Panji Poyon — Bandar Sherkhan border crossing check point (BCP),” the Khatlon chief customs officer noted.
“Circulation of cars and goods is normal and our drivers are satisfied with the work of the Taliabn customs officers and border guards. Afghan vendors are also satisfied with their work. Our drivers are exempted from paying entry fee of US$250 while driving into Afghan territory,” Mahmadiyev
He also noted that Tajik border guards regularly meet with their Afghan colleagues to discuss cooperation issues.
“The Taliban always ask if there are any problems so they solve them,” the Khatlon chief customs officer said.
He further added that currently 30-40 trucks proceed through the Panji Poyon — Bandar Sherkhan BCP per day carrying cement, coal and eggs to Afghanistan. Previously, up to 80 trucks had reportedly proceeded through the Panji Poyon — Sherkhan Bandar BCP.
Recall, the Minister of Transport Azim Ibrohim told reporters in Dushanbe on July 14, 2021 that unstable political situation in Afghanistan has not become an obstacle in the way of Tajikistan’s international road cargo transportation.
According to him, 123 trucks proceeded through the Panji Poyon – Sher Khan Bandar crossing on July 13; 51 of them entered the territory of Tajikistan and 72 trucks entered the territory of Afghanistan.
The minister further added that long-distance truckers pay certain obligatory fees while crossing the Tajik-Afghan border.
A Tajik long-distance trucker on July 13, 2021 told on the basis of anonymity that the Taliban have waived visa requirements for them at the Sher Khan Bandar crossing. According to him, the Sher Khan Bandar crossing is open for passing and the Taliban do not create problems for traffic.
Taliban militants seized the Sher Khan Bandar bridge, built in 2007 with United States funding, on June 22, 2021.
