CHAGAI: At least 20 trucks loaded with dates arrived on Monday through the Taftan border crossing after the government decided to start importing food items from Iran.

The National Command and Operation Centre had taken this decision during its meeting on April 21.

According to official sources, the border with Iran would be opened for three days every week to import dates and other commodities; however, there was no decision taken regarding exports to Iran.

The sources said the border would be opened at Chagai, Washuk, Panjgur, Turbat and Gwadar to meet the requirements of people dependent on Iranian commodities.

They said the interior ministry had also allowed import of petrol and diesel from Iran through 40 to 50 pick-ups via Chagai and Katagar. All precautionary measures will be taken to avoid the spread of coronavirus by carrying out disinfection, using spray, screening and other related steps.

After customs clearance the vehicles would be escorted to the designated unloading points.

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2020