The United Nations agencies taking care of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Pakistan have started preparing a framework for safe repatriation of IDPs to their respective areas, a press release said Thursday.

"We emphasize an organized repatriation and safe return of IDPs to their homes," UN Humanitarian Coordinator Martin Mogwanja said here at a press conference.

"We are closely working with the North West Frontier Province (NWFP) government and other agencies to prepare a framework and information sharing with the IDPs for their sustainable, safe and secure return to their homes," he said.

Although all concerned would like to avoid a protracted displacement situation, he said, the humanitarian community is working with the government to ensure that any return of IDPs is voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable.

Answering a question, Mogwanja said, negotiation continues among the humanitarian community and the government for safer return of the IDPs.

"We also focus on availability of social services and sustainability. The government, on the other hand, is making wide range of efforts to achieve it," he added.

Mogwanja underlined the need for disseminating information to IDPs as to where the pre-requisites had been completed and which area was ready for repatriation.

When asked about repatriation of Malakand and Buner people, he said, "we are in fluid security environment and it is primary concern for going back."

He said survey was being conducted about repatriation of IDPs although the security situation was the basic criteria.

The coordinator said the UN could not give the exact figure of people displacing from Waziristan tribal areas bordering Afghanistan though "we look for expansion of our program coverage to those displaced as well."

He said the humanitarian agencies are also preparing a contingency plan to meet any upcoming needs of the people in wake of impending displacement.

The UN press release said one of the greatest challenges ahead will be rebuilding the schools in conflict areas so that IDP children can continue their education when they return.

Source: Xinhua