Over 600,000 IDPs return to their homes.

ISLAMABAD, July 30, 2009 (Balochistan Times) -- Over 600,000 Internally Displaced Persons have returned to their homes out of total 2.2 million displaced during the conflict in different areas of North West Frontier Province (NWFP). According to Emergency Response Unit (ERU), above 600,000 people have returned to their homes, UNOCHA Spokesperson and Public Information Officer Stephanie Bunker informed media at a news conference on Thursday. Some of IDPs camps have been closed as displaced persons staying their have returned to their homes, she added. She however reiterated efforts for sustainability of those returning to their homes in terms of settlement and provision of basic needs. She said a Task Force has been set up to look into the affairs of resettlement and provision of basic needs as some other families are eager to go back. She said the agriculture in the conflict area has been badly damaged and there is need for short, mid and long term assistance for sustainability of the people. Bunker said people in Swat, Buner and other areas still need assistance to establish their businesses and explore employment opportunities. She also mentioned to displacement from South Waziristan and said, there may be 50,000 displaced persons in D I Khan and some 25,000 in Tank district. But, there people are living with the host communities and their relatives. Answering a question, she said, initially the humanitarian community would prefer to assist them as where they are residing. If the influx is much more, then the setting up of camps would be considered. Answering another question regarding missing children, Bunker said, there are reports about missing children and we endeavour to have better information about them and ensure their re-union. When asked about exact number of missing as well as orphan children, she said, she did not have the exact figure and can be revealed later on.

(THROUGH ASIA PULSE)