PESHAWAR: Thousands of Afghan refugees expelled from Pakistan face a severe housing crisis in Afghanistan. Many have appealed to the interim Afghan government for urgent help.
Bakhtiar, a returning refugee, shared his struggle with Afghan media house ‘TOLO News. “Raids destroyed our crops and livestock,” he said. “My son Bayarzada was arrested. Others at home were also sent back.”
Another refugee, Mohammad Nabi, voiced similar concerns. “We need jobs in Afghanistan,” he said. “We have no homes, no land, and our belongings are still outside. Housing is our most urgent need.”
In response, the Ministry of Urban Development has announced new housing plans. The ministry said 60 residential colonies are ready. More are under development as provincial offices continue their work.
Kamal Afghan, the ministry’s spokesman, confirmed these efforts.
Meanwhile, a report by the World Food Program (WFP) warns of a deepening crisis. It says more Afghan refugees are being expelled from Pakistan. Up to 1.6 million more may return soon.
The WFP blames the crisis on the suspension of U.S. aid and the rising number of returnees.
Since August 2021, over 2.7 million undocumented Afghans have returned from Pakistan and Iran. The trend has worsened in 2025 due to tougher crackdowns on illegal migrants. Border provinces now face growing pressure from the influx.
