The construction of 40 shelters for refugees who have been forcibly deported from Iran and Pakistan has been initiated by a Turkish aid organization in Sholgara district of Balkh Province.

The head of the Department of Refugees and Repatriation in Balkh said that the cost of building each shelter is 2,000 USD, and it will be completed within the next two months.

 Asadullah Wafa, head of the Refugees and Repatriation Department in Balkh said: "In such circumstances, this is an important project that has been provided for the people, and we must extend our hands to those who need it."

Hamid Konut, a representative of the Turkish aid organization, said: "Although the distance between Afghanistan and Turkey is thousands of meters, our hearts are close.

The people and government of Turkey will always stand by the people of Afghanistan, and indeed, when we came to Sholgara District for the survey, we realized that these refugees need more support, and our programs will continue."

Some of the refugees who have been deported from Pakistan and Iran are happy to be getting permanent shelters.

Mohammad Zahir, a 50-year-old father of 9, said that two months ago, he was forcibly deported from Pakistan and has been living with relatives ever since. He is happy that a shelter is being built for him, as he was unable to build one himself.

Mohammad Zahir told TOLOnews: "When I came from Pakistan, I was staying with my relatives. I am happy that a house is being built for us so we can live in our own home."

Mohammad Younus, who was deported from Pakistan, said: "I am also a refugee. I have documents. My documents are with me, and a house should be built for me as well."

The deputy governor of Balkh is calling on other aid organizations to stand by the people of Afghanistan, especially refugees, and to cooperate in the construction of shelters and the provision of necessary facilities for the newly returned refugees.

Nuralhadi Abu Idris, the deputy governor of Balkh, said: "This project alone will not meet the needs of the people. The people in this area are very needy."

A large number of refugees in the country have complained about the lack of permanent shelters and requested the authorities in the caretaker government provide permanent shelter.