PESHAWAR : The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP government has decided to initiate a phased repatriation of Afghan refugees, approving the partial opening of the Pak‑Afghan Torkham border. In the first phase, Afghan citizens currently imprisoned in provincial jails will be repatriated.
According to police and government sources, the border crossing will only be opened for designated convoys, with general movement remaining suspended. The return process is set to begin with prisoners, as a large number of Afghan nationals are currently held in jails across the province.
A report from the Home Department indicates that Peshawar Central Jail houses over 1,000 Afghan prisoners, while jails in Kohat and Haripur collectively hold approximately 1,200. Officials noted that significant daily expenditures are incurred on their maintenance.
Sources stated that mounting prison populations, the continuous influx of Afghan families, and security considerations prompted the government to take immediate action. Under the initial phase, Afghan inmates will be shifted to Nasir Bagh Camp, where their registration will be completed. Following registration, they will be sent to Afghanistan in regular convoys through the Torkham border.
Strict security arrangements have been made for the movement. Khyber Police will provide comprehensive security to the convoys from Jamrud to the border crossing.
Officials outlined that the second phase will focus on Afghan refugees residing in registered camps, while the third phase will address Afghan nationals living illegally in various cities of the province. Authorities emphasized that the entire process would be completed in a dignified and orderly manner.
According to police sources, the Torkham border will not be opened for ordinary travelers but solely for the designated repatriation convoys. The first convoy is expected to depart as early as tomorrow.
Government sources said the strategy is expected to ease pressure on overcrowded prisons, reduce associated expenses, and contribute to improved law and order across the province.
