Inauguration of a 6,000-Acre Modern Township in Herat for Returning Migrants

On Sunday, June 29, 2025, a modern township spanning 6,000 acres was inaugurated in Herat province, Afghanistan, to address the needs of returning migrants. The ceremony was graced by Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs and head of the High Commission for Addressing Migrants’ Affairs, joined by several cabinet members, the Minister of Urban Development and Housing, and the Governor of Herat.

Designed to provide shelter for migrants returning from neighboring countries, particularly Iran and Pakistan, the township is equipped with essential facilities, including housing, healthcare services, educational centers, and critical infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, Mawlavi Hanafi described the township as a vital step toward ensuring a dignified and stable life for returning migrants. He reaffirmed the Islamic Emirate’s commitment to providing sustainable, high-quality services to help these individuals reintegrate and rebuild their lives in Afghanistan.

Hanafi also announced that the Islamic Emirate is developing 35 similar townships across 25 provinces, with several projects already in progress and others in the design and planning stages, reflecting a nationwide effort to support returnees.

Situated in the Dasht-e-Turka area of Zinda Jan district, Herat, the township is being developed in two phases, with the first phase covering 3,000 acres now operational. Migrants returning from Iran expressed profound gratitude and optimism, stating that having a home in their homeland offers them a fresh start with security and dignity.

Local authorities in Herat emphasized that the lack of adequate housing is a significant challenge for newly returned migrants, and this township addresses a critical need. Beyond providing shelter, the project is poised to drive economic and social development in the region by establishing essential infrastructure.

The completion of the township’s subsequent phases, alongside similar initiatives in other provinces, is expected to significantly alleviate the struggles of returning migrants while promoting long-term social stability and sustainable development across Afghanistan.