As the government’s deadline for undocumented Afghan refugees ended on Sunday, authorities have formed special teams across the country to start identifying and verifying Afghan families.

The government had given Afghan refugees until August 31 to leave Pakistan, where many of them have been living for more than four decades. Officials had warned that from September 1, action would begin against those who stayed without valid documents.

According to officials, teams have been created at the sub-divisional level. Each team will be led by an assistant commissioner along with police officers and other local officials. “These teams will go door-to-door, identify Afghan families, and ask them to leave,” one senior official explained. He also clarified that no harsh action has been ordered for now.

Over the past few months, thousands of Afghans applied for Pakistani visas after realizing they would no longer be allowed to stay without documents. Many managed to get visas, while others returned home after decades in Pakistan. Most of those applying for visas were shopkeepers, vendors, or small business owners.

Several refugee camps have already been closed, and more closures are underway. Police and local administrations are now preparing to fully enforce the new policy against those without visas or travel documents.

Pakistan had first asked undocumented Afghans to return home in 2023. Those with Afghan Citizen Cards left earlier this year, while August 31 was the final deadline for those holding Proof of Registration cards. Still, many families say they need more time to wind up their businesses and homes before leaving.

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