The Pakistan-Iran border crossing at Gwadar has been temporarily closed due to security concerns, local authorities announced on Sunday.
In an official statement, the Deputy Commissioner of Gwadar announced that all trade and movement of goods at the “250” checkpoint have been halted, with the border remaining closed until further notice.
The border closure comes as protests on the Makuran Coastal Highway entered their third day. Demonstrators, led by the Pickup Owners’ Union, have blocked several roads, accusing the Pakistan Coast Guard of harassment and abuse towards local traders.
The protests began on Friday along the M-8 CPEC Highway, with major blockades reported at Nalent Zero Point and other locations by Sunday. Union leaders claim the protests are in response to repeated mistreatment by the Coast Guard.
The roadblocks have left dozens of vehicles stranded, including over 200 Shia pilgrims who had already faced delays at the Iranian border before becoming caught in the ongoing protests.
Local officials have not yet indicated when the road and border closures will be lifted.
Protesters have criticized the district administration for its lack of action, arguing that no meaningful efforts have been made to address their concerns. The border closure has raised alarm among local traders, who worry that the disruption will further impact border trade and worsen the region’s economic struggles.