Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi visited the Landi Kotal holding centre and inspected arrangements for Afghan refugees returning to their country, speaking to the media during his visit.
Officials from the line departments accompanied the governor, who reviewed facilities provided at the centre, including accommodation, food, and medical services for returning Afghan nationals.
High Influx at Border Centres
The governor noted that there was a significant rush of refugees at the Landi Kotal holding centre and the Torkham border crossing. He said that authorities were trying to ensure all possible facilities for those staying at the centre.
He added that the government was providing basic necessities such as shelter, meals, and medicines to ensure humane treatment of refugees during the repatriation process.
Expansion of Health and Registration Facilities
Faisal Karim Kundi announced that the UNHCR would establish a dispensary to improve medical services at the centre. He also said that registration centres had already been opened in Kohat and other locations to manage the flow of people more efficiently.
According to him, the establishment of additional registration centres would help reduce congestion at key border points.
Community Support and Regional Appeal
The governor acknowledged that due to increased pressure, local residents had hosted Afghan refugees in their homes and traditional guest spaces (hujras).
He also urged the Afghan government and people to extend similar support to Pakistani citizens currently stranded in Afghanistan, calling for mutual humanitarian cooperation across the border.
