Six million people now live in Afghanistan again. They came back from other big countries. Many people left their homes long ago. They grew up in places far away. Some people were born in other lands. They never saw Afghanistan before today.
Bad groups took charge of the country. Leaders in Pakistan and Iran want people out. Buses and trucks bring families across the border. Workers process thousands of people each day. The return brings big changes for everyone. Life is very hard for these families.
Long Journey Home
People pack their bags in a rush. They leave behind jobs and friends. The journey takes many long hours. Families ride in crowded trucks together. Children look out the windows with fear. They do not know what waits ahead.
Guards check papers at the big gate. Officials write down names of all returnees. Some people wait for days in lines. The sun shines hot on the dusty ground. People share food and water with neighbors. Everyone feels tired from the long trip.
Starting Over Now
Families arrive with almost no money left. They look for safe places to sleep. Old houses need a lot of work. The rooms have broken doors and windows. Workers bring tents for people to use. Winter brings cold wind and heavy snow.
Parents want jobs to buy food. Factories and shops have very few openings. Farms need workers for the harvest season. Pay is low for long hard labor. Children cannot go to school yet. Families hope for a better future soon.
Help From Friends
Kind helpers bring boxes of food. Doctors check sick children in tents. Clean water comes in large metal tanks. Volunteers hand out warm blankets and coats. Schools try to open new classes. Teachers give pencils and paper to kids.
Local leaders talk about the huge problem. The country needs money for new homes. Roads and bridges need fast repairs. People share what little food they have. Neighbors welcome the tired travelers back home. Everyone hopes for peace and steady work.