Gwadar – Dozens of Pakistani students and pilgrims have started making their way back home from Iran, following weeks of violent protests and escalating instability that have disrupted daily life and normal travel in the neighbouring country.
With flights suspended and security concerns rising, hundreds of Pakistanis, including students and religious pilgrims, have opted to return via land routes. The main crossing point at Gabad-250 has seen a steady flow of returnees, with authorities coordinating their safe passage into Pakistan. Officials report that over 100 students and pilgrims have crossed in the last two days, while more are expected in the coming week as travel arrangements continue.
Among those returning are Pakistani students from universities across Iran, including Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, who faced uncertainty due to the unrest and disruption of academic schedules. Many reported challenges in accessing campus facilities, while heightened security measures in Iranian cities made travel increasingly difficult. Pilgrims, families and individuals, including women and children, have also been part of the convoys making the long journey home.
Federal authorities, including the FIA immigration wing, have been actively involved in managing border formalities and ensuring that returnees are provided with necessary assistance. Buses and small convoys have transported students and pilgrims safely across the border, while arrangements continue for onward travel to their respective hometowns.
The unfolding situation highlights the impact of Iran’s internal crisis on foreign nationals, particularly Pakistanis who were residing in the country for education or religious purposes. The reliance on land routes underscores the difficulties posed by suspended flights and strained transport infrastructure.
Officials say additional groups of students are expected to arrive in the coming days, with authorities making special arrangements to handle the increasing number of returnees. The repatriation process reflects Pakistan’s efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens amid ongoing turmoil in the region.
As the journey home continues, the stories of students and pilgrims navigating long and uncertain routes underscore the human cost of the unrest in Iran, while authorities work to provide relief and safe passage for all returning citizens.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.