The International Committee of the Red Cross says thousands in Nuristan have gone without food, healthcare and basic services for more than six weeks due to fighting, as aid deliveries begin.
The ICRC said the assistance is being delivered in coordination with the Afghan Red Crescent Society and the World Food Programme, and is expected to reach about 136,000 people, including nearly 17,000 families, in Kamdesh and Barg Matal districts.
The organisation said it has been in contact with all parties since the fighting began to ensure safe and unhindered access for humanitarian aid.
It added that after initial deliveries of food and essential supplies, the transfer of patients for treatment has resumed and access to healthcare is gradually improving in affected areas.
The ICRC also called on all sides to guarantee safe, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access to vulnerable communities and allow essential assistance to reach those in need.
The route from Barikot village in Nari district of Kunar to Kamdesh and Barg Matal in Nuristan had been closed due to Pakistani forces’ shelling.
Tribal elders in Nuristan and Pakistan’s Chitral district had earlier said they had reached an agreement to reopen the routes connecting Kamdesh and Barg Matal.
