Returning Afghan Families in Balkh Camp Struggle with Harsh Winter Conditions

Dozens of Afghan families who have recently returned from Iran and Pakistan are currently living in a temporary camp in Balkh province, reporting a lack of adequate shelter and basic facilities. They say the severe cold at night, especially for children, has become a major problem, with an increase in illness cases.

Residents of this temporary camp emphasize that the problem is not limited to just one or two families. According to them, shortages of food, warm clothing, and medical services have made daily life difficult, and without immediate assistance, surviving the winter will be impossible.

Meanwhile, officials from the Balkh Directorate of Refugees and Returnees confirm the families’ difficulties. Mawlawi Asadullah Wafa, head of the directorate, stated that after a meeting with provincial authorities, a committee has been established to coordinate aid, and talks with the coal vendors union and charity organizations are ongoing.

According to information from this directorate, since the beginning of the current solar year, nearly 21,000 migrant families have returned to Balkh. This situation has increased pressure on local resources and highlights the urgent need for effective and responsive action from the Taliban administration and responsible organizations.