Afghan Refugees Repatriation Underway via Chaman Border
Holding camps have been established along the Pak-Afghan border in Balochistan’s Chaman district to facilitate the repatriation of Afghan refugees, according to district officials. The process, which includes biometric verification and temporary accommodations, is part of the second phase of returning Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to their homeland.
Repatriation Process and Delays
The second phase of repatriation was scheduled to begin on Thursday following the government’s March 31 deadline for ACC holders to leave voluntarily. However, according to a senior official at the Afghan Commissionerate, the process has been delayed due to Eidul Fitr, based on instructions from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.
Despite this delay, Chaman Deputy Commissioner (DC) Habib Ahmad Bangulzai confirmed that repatriation efforts had commenced on April 2. Holding camps, including one at Jamal Nasir Football Stadium, have been set up to accommodate Afghan families before their departure.
Logistics and Data Processing
To streamline the process, a database camp has been set up at the LPG terminal at the Bab Dosti border crossing. The facility will serve as a data transit point while also providing shelter for Afghan families in case of border closures.
Bangulzai stated that biometric verification is being conducted by Nadra at the Bab Dosti camp to ensure proper documentation. Afghan families who are unable to complete processing immediately will be provided with accommodation and food until their departure is finalized.
Current Status of Departures
According to Bangulzai, over 3,500 Afghan families are registered in Chaman district. So far, two families have voluntarily returned, while authorities have relocated eight others to holding camps. Once their data is verified and necessary procedures are completed, they will be repatriated across the border.
Coordination with Other Districts
Officials from other districts in Balochistan have also contacted the Chaman administration for assistance in repatriation efforts, as Chaman serves as the primary Pak-Afghan gateway. Afghan families arriving from different regions will have their data re-entered in Chaman before crossing into Afghanistan.
The repatriation of Afghan refugees through Chaman highlights Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to regulate undocumented migration. While the process has faced delays due to Eidul Fitr, authorities remain committed to ensuring an orderly and documented return. The biometric verification and holding camps reflect measures aimed at maintaining security and facilitating a structured transition for Afghan families returning to their homeland.
