KABUL, Afghanistan — A truck transporting Afghan refugees returning from Pakistan overturned in Laghman province on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 individuals, including 10 children and five women, while approximately 36 others sustained injuries. The accident occurred on a main highway connecting Kabul to Nangarhar province when the driver reportedly fell asleep, causing the vehicle to plunge into a ditch. The injured were promptly taken to hospitals in Nangarhar for treatment. This incident is part of a larger wave of repatriation, as many Afghans have returned from Pakistan following a crackdown on migrants in 2023, with millions returning home after years of living abroad. Additionally, a separate incident in Nuristan province involved a car falling into a river, leaving four passengers missing as rescue operations commenced.
Why It Matters
Traffic accidents are a significant issue in Afghanistan, compounded by poorly maintained roads and frequent disregard for traffic regulations. The recent influx of returning migrants, driven by increased deportations from Pakistan and Iran, highlights the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by many Afghans. With millions repatriated, the country is experiencing heightened pressure on its already strained infrastructure and healthcare systems. These incidents underscore the urgent need for improved road safety measures and better support for returning citizens as Afghanistan adjusts to the growing population and their needs.
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