Authorities in Balochistan have issued notices to Afghan refugees, warning them to leave the province before the government deadline. Only three days remain for their repatriation.
The federal government has set September 1 as the date for the third phase of Afghan refugee repatriation across Pakistan. Commissioner for Afghan Refugees, Talib-ul-Mola, confirmed the timeline. He said the operation will include Afghan nationals holding Proof of Registration (POR) cards. These cardholders will also be sent back to Afghanistan.
According to official data, 304,000 Afghan refugees currently live in Balochistan. Out of these, around 50,000 reside in ten active refugee camps across the province. Two camps have already been deactivated.
Deputy commissioners in all districts have been directed to serve evacuation notices to Afghan families in their respective areas. The officials are tasked with ensuring compliance before the September deadline.
The decision follows federal government instructions to enforce repatriation nationwide. Authorities emphasized that no Afghan national, whether registered or unregistered, will be allowed to stay in the country beyond the given timeline.
Commissioner Talib-ul-Mola stated that the third phase of repatriation will formally begin on September 1. He assured that the government will coordinate the process and monitor the exit of refugees.
Security and administrative preparations are already underway in border areas. Officials expect a surge in movement toward crossing points after the deadline.
The upcoming phase has created uncertainty among Afghan families living in Balochistan for decades. Rights groups have raised concerns about humanitarian challenges. However, authorities insist the process will be carried out in accordance with national policy.
The matter has been submitted to relevant provincial and federal bodies for monitoring.
