TORKHAM — A massive fire broke out early Sunday at a market on the Afghan side of the Torkham border crossing, destroying more than 150 shops and causing heavy financial losses for traders, according to local sources and traders present in the area.
The blaze reportedly erupted around 4:00 a.m. and continued for several hours, reducing rows of commercial stalls to ashes in one of the busiest trading points along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border. Initial estimates suggest losses of nearly 300 million Afghanis, affecting dozens of Afghan traders and small business owners operating in the market.
Traders report unusual activity before blaze
Several traders said they observed suspicious movements by armed Afghan personnel in the area shortly before the fire broke out, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Local sources described the market as largely unprepared for a fire of this scale, noting that the blaze spread rapidly through closely packed shops containing goods and supplies. The cause of the fire has not been officially confirmed.
Allegations and competing narratives
Some security analysts and local sources suggested the possibility that the incident may be used to frame a narrative of a cross-border attack. They argued that such claims could be part of broader propaganda efforts aimed at portraying Afghanistan as a victim while placing blame on Pakistan.
They also noted that Pakistan has consistently denied targeting civilian or commercial areas across the border, saying the country does not carry out attacks against civilian markets.
Concerns over firefighting response
Witnesses said the fire burned for hours before it was brought under control, raising concerns among traders about the adequacy of firefighting measures at such a major commercial hub.
The Torkham crossing is one of the busiest trade gateways between Pakistan and Afghanistan, handling large volumes of goods and serving thousands of traders and transporters daily. The destruction of more than 150 shops is expected to disrupt local commerce and affect livelihoods in the area.
Authorities in Afghanistan had not issued a detailed official statement on the cause of the blaze at the time of reporting.
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