PESHAWAR: The number of Afghan nationals returning to Afghanistan through the Torkham border has dropped significantly in recent weeks, despite the ongoing repatriation process.
According to available figures, around 1.571 million Afghan nationals returned to their country through Torkham between October 2023 and October 2026. However, the pace of returns has slowed considerably over the past month and a half.
The returning population includes approximately 638,000 children, 520,000 men and 412,000 women, while the total number of families returning to Afghanistan stands at around 255,000.
Over the past six weeks, the number of Afghan nationals returning daily through Torkham has fallen to approximately 250 to 300. In contrast, around 3,500 to 4,000 Afghan nationals were returning each day during an earlier period in 2025.
Meanwhile, the government had warned of renewed action against illegally residing Afghan nationals after October 1, with preparations reportedly completed for the enforcement drive. The holding centre established at Torkham is also operational.
Personnel from various relevant departments have been deployed at the border to manage the movement of Afghan nationals returning home. Around 300 Afghan nationals are reportedly arriving at the holding centre daily, while raids and arrests targeting illegally residing Afghan nationals continue in different parts of the country.
Despite the ongoing repatriation process, the recent decline in daily returns has raised questions about the changing pace of the movement. However, the authorities have not yet provided further details explaining the reasons behind the slowdown.
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