Pakistani officials reported that the process of repatriating Afghan refugees was suspended on Thursday after a powerful explosion at a crowded taxi stand in the border town of Chaman killed six people. At the time of the blast, a large number of Afghan families had gathered at the Pak-Afghan border to return to their homes. Authorities immediately suspended the repatriation process and evacuated the families from the area for their safety.
New Title: Details of the Blast and Government Response
The movement was allowed to resume on Friday after security forces secured the site. Officials stated that the entire area was swept before Afghan refugees were permitted to approach the crossing point again. The blast on Thursday evening claimed four lives on the spot, with two of the injured later succumbing to their wounds. Assistant Commissioner Chaman, Imtiaz Baloch, confirmed the explosion occurred near makeshift shops at the taxi stand. Police said initial investigations suggested that explosives had been planted outside the shops.
The Balochistan Home Department confirmed the casualties and ordered an inquiry into the incident, urging citizens to cooperate with investigators. The department vowed that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
New Title: Criticism of Pakistan’s Repatriation Policy
Last year, Pakistan launched a drive to repatriate undocumented Afghan nationals, citing security concerns and the need for stricter border management. According to government figures, more than one million Afghans without legal documents are residing in Pakistan. Tens of thousands have already been repatriated through the Chaman and Torkham border crossings since the policy was enforced. Officials say the campaign aims to ensure that only those with valid visas and refugee cards remain in Pakistan. However, human rights groups have criticized the policy as abrupt and harsh, warning that many returnees face uncertain futures in Afghanistan due to economic hardship and limited access to basic services.
