Families protest missing youths, blocking N-40 Highway

The N-40 National Highway in Pakistan has been blocked for nine days by families protesting the disappearance of 10 youths from Kardgap. This closure has disrupted travel and severed the land connection with Iran. Protesters have also damaged a vehicle trying to use an alternative route. Meanwhile, the Torkham border with Afghanistan remains closed for 16 days due to tensions over construction in disputed areas, impacting trade and leaving thousands stranded. The border closure has caused an estimated daily loss of $3 million in trade. Both countries have increased military presence at the border amid fears of conflict, as Pakistan raises concerns about terrorism linked to groups operating from Afghanistan.