HUNDREDS of people are stranded at a key border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan today, following days of fighting between security forces that left at least three dead.

Border tensions have risen since the Taliban returned to power last year, with Pakistan alleging militant groups are planning attacks from Afghan soil.

The Taliban deny harbouring Pakistani militants, but are also infuriated by a fence Islamabad is erecting along their 2,700km border, drawn up in colonial times and known as the Durand Line.

Each side blamed the other for the fighting at the Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing on Thursday.

“The border remains closed for passengers and trade,” said a Pakistani security official.

“A delegation of tribal notables and religious leaders has been formed to hold talks with the Taliban.”

An AFP reporter saw hundreds of people waiting at Chaman for the border to reopen.

Thousands usually cross every day, including traders, people visiting relatives and Afghans seeking medical treatment in Pakistan. – AFP, February 26, 2022.