The repatriation of undocumented Afghan nationals from Pakistan has slowed considerably in recent weeks, as worsening living conditions and approaching winter create additional challenges for returning families.
Officials in Khyber reported that only 10 to 15 families now return to Afghanistan daily through the Torkham border. This marks a significant decline from August and September, when hundreds of people crossed the border each day.
An official at the Hamza Baba registration centre said approximately 100 individuals, mostly children, recently returned in a day. Previously, the centre recorded more than 1,000 daily departures until the last week of September.
Harsh Winter Raises Concerns Among Returning Families
Officials attributed the slowdown to limited accommodation, poor economic opportunities and inadequate facilities in Afghanistan. Many remaining Afghan families fear returning because they cannot secure suitable housing, employment, healthcare and education for their children.
Mujeebullah Shinwari, president of the Torkham Customs Clearing Agents Association, said most remaining individuals were labourers with limited professional skills. Furthermore, many have lost contact with communities in Afghanistan after spending several decades in Pakistan.
He warned that the coming six months would prove particularly difficult for returning families with limited financial resources. The approaching winter could further worsen their circumstances because many lack adequate shelter and reliable sources of income.
Customs clearing agents have also raised concerns about complaints involving missing or confiscated personal belongings during border clearance. Returning families have reported losing valuable household items, including essential medicines, despite completing customs inspections.
Transporters have also reported complaints about missing valuables, with some families deducting money from transportation charges as compensation. However, authorities have been slow to investigate these complaints and return confiscated belongings.
Complicated Procedures Add To Returnees’ Difficulties
The process of recovering missing belongings has created additional problems for Afghan families. Applicants must approach several customs officials and obtain verification and approval from multiple departments before recovering their property.
Consequently, some families have withdrawn their complaints because of lengthy procedures and repeated delays. Customs clearing agents have urged border authorities to address these concerns and prevent unlawful activities during repatriation.
The slowdown highlights the difficult circumstances facing families returning to Afghanistan, particularly as winter approaches and access to housing, employment and essential services remains limited.
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