As the regional conflict enters its 17th day, the organized return of Pakistani citizens from Iran continues at a steady pace. District authorities confirmed today that a total of 5,047 Pakistani nationals have successfully crossed back into the country through the Taftan and Gabd-Rimdan border points in Balochistan since hostilities began on February 28.
The returnees comprise a diverse group of citizens, including students, laborers, and pilgrims, who are being provided with logistical assistance and security clearance upon arrival.
5,615 Pakistanis return from Iran since Feb 28: Balochistan chief minister
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— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) March 17, 2026
Border Crossing Statistics: Day 16
On Monday, border officials recorded a consistent flow of arrivals across the two primary land routes:
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Taftan Border: 8 individuals returned on Monday. Over the 16-day period, this crossing has facilitated the return of 3,456 people.
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Gabd-Rimdan Border: 84 individuals arrived on the same day, bringing the cumulative total for this route to 1,591.
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Daily Total: A combined 92 individuals were processed through both crossings within the last 24-hour reporting cycle.
Profile of the Returnees
The evacuation and voluntary return efforts are catering to various segments of the Pakistani diaspora and travelers who were in Iran at the time of the US-Israeli strikes:
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Students & Professionals: Many Iranian-based students and businessmen have opted to return as educational institutions and commercial activities remain disrupted.
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Laborers: Migrant workers employed in Iran’s industrial and agricultural sectors are among those seeking safety.
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Pilgrims: A significant number of religious travelers (Zaireen) have been cleared for return through the Taftan corridor.
Administrative & Security Protocols
District authorities in Chagai and Gwadar have implemented enhanced screening and registration protocols to manage the influx:
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Documentation & Health: Returnees are being documented by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and provided with basic medical checkups by provincial health teams.
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Transport: Security forces are ensuring the safe passage of convoys from the border regions toward the provincial capital and other major cities.
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Vigilance: While the borders remain open for the return of nationals, authorities are maintaining high alert to prevent any unauthorized cross-border movement amidst the regional security vacuum.
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Continuing Support
The Government of Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe repatriation of all citizens remaining in Iran. Emergency helplines at the Pakistani Embassy in Tehran and consulates in Mashhad and Zahedan remain operational to assist those still seeking to navigate the return routes.
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