Sherpao calls for facilities, medical camps for returning refugees

Chairman of the Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao has expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian situation faced by Afghan refugees returning to their country, calling for urgent and comprehensive measures.
In a statement issued from the party’s secretariat at Watan Kor in Peshawar, he said the challenges confronting returning refugees required immediate and full attention.
He warned that the prevailing situation was turning into a serious humanitarian crisis, as refugees were facing multiple hardships during their journey back to Afghanistan.
Mr Sherpao said obstacles, route closures, prolonged waiting times and lack of basic facilities had made the journey extremely difficult. He added that at least two refugees had lost their lives so far, while several women gave birth during the journey, terming the situation contrary to humanitarian norms.
He urged the authorities and relevant institutions to take urgent steps to provide immediate relief and ensure availability of basic facilities to the returning refugees.
He also called on the government to make effective arrangements while ensuring protection of fundamental human rights and human dignity.
The QWP chief demanded provision of facilities at border crossings, establishment of medical camps, and availability of food and shelter to ensure a dignified and safe return of refugee families.
He further appealed to the international community, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNCHR), and other welfare organisations to extend immediate assistance, saying the situation required urgent global attention.