MAZAR-E-SHARIF (SW) – Authorities in Balkh’s Directorate of Refugees and Returnees have announced the commencement of construction on 125 new homes for people who were returned from Iran and Pakistan.
Asadullah Wafa, the head of the directorate, said that these homes will be built in the districts of Zare, Kaldar, Charbolak, and Nahr-e-Shahi.
“Each house costs $4,000 to construct, and the project is expected to be completed within four months. These homes are being built for families who have been forcibly expelled from Iran and Pakistan,” he added.
Wafa also mentioned that the total cost for the construction of these homes amounts to 44 million Afghanis, funded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Returnees from Iran and Pakistan have expressed their gratitude for the new housing project. They believe these homes will resolve their shelter issues.
Ismail, a resident of Balkh, said, “Our request is for more houses to be built for other families in need, so that everyone can live without worry. Not having a home is a significant problem.”
Another resident, Zarif, appealed to the de-dacto government and aid organizations to address other challenges faced by returnees. “We were worried about where to spend the winter nights and how to take care of our children. We are now relieved that shelter is being provided.”
Meanwhile, Noor al-Hadi Abu Edris, Deputy Governor of Balkh, has called on aid organizations to offer additional support for returnees. “We urge organizations to increase their assistance as returned families are in need and lack adequate amenities.”
Previously, some returnees in Balkh had complained about the lack of shelter. According to data from the Balkh Department of Refugees and Returnees, around 2,000 families have returned to the province from Iran and Pakistan since the beginning of the current solar year.
