Nangarhar Department Prepares for Afghan Refugee Repatriation

Jalalabad's Refugee and Repatriation Department in Nangarhar province is gearing up to support Afghan refugees facing expulsion from Pakistan in the upcoming second phase of repatriation post Eidul Fitr. Director Baz Mohammad Abdul Rahman confirmed the department's readiness, having collaborated with NGOs who have pledged assistance for the returnees.

Since November last year, over 90,000 families, totaling half a million individuals, have returned to Afghanistan in the initial phase of repatriation for 'undocumented aliens.' Approximately 70% of these families have been resettled in Nangarhar province, with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and partner institutions providing support to each family multiple times.

The repatriated families are in need of various forms of aid, including shelter, food, non-food items, cash, vocational training, rent, clean water, healthcare, small businesses, agriculture, and livestock support. The Pakistani government is set to commence the second phase of deporting Afghan refugees post Eid-ul-Fitr, with plans to expel Afghan Citizen Card holders starting April 15.

Returning refugees express happiness at being back in their homeland but face challenges such as the lack of education and job opportunities. Concerns have been raised by individuals like Haji Zhargi and Atal Khan, who highlight the struggles of unemployment and the impact on their families post-return.

The caretaker government officials have assured the returnees of job opportunities and shelter, aiming to alleviate their hardships and facilitate their reintegration into Afghan society.