Pakistan Demolishes Over 1,200 Homes in Afghan Refugee Settlement

Pakistan Demolishes Over 1,200 Homes in Afghan Refugee Settlement
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Pakistan has demolished more than 1,200 homes in a long-standing Afghan refugee settlement in Karachi as part of an ongoing nationwide deportation campaign targeting undocumented Afghans, according to Khaama Press.

Authorities said the demolition drive in Karachi’s Manghopir area has continued for five consecutive days, affecting both residential and commercial structures. The settlement, established in 1984 and covering around 215 hectares, had served as one of the oldest Afghan refugee communities in Pakistan.

Police officials stated the operation is part of efforts to clear state land and assist in the repatriation of Afghans living illegally in the country. According to the Manghopir deputy superintendent of police, over 90% of the area’s residents have already returned to Afghanistan, with an additional 800 to 1,000 expected to depart soon.

Human rights organizations have voiced concern over the rapid demolitions, warning that many displaced families could be left without homes or access to essential services. The Karachi operation is part of Pakistan’s broader policy to remove undocumented Afghan nationals, a move Islamabad says addresses security concerns. However, the campaign has drawn criticism from the United Nations and aid groups for its humanitarian impact.