Humanitarian needs of IDPs largely remain unmet

The humanitarian needs of the vulnerable internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Khyber Agency are largely unmet, as they continue to battle the heat, increasing prices of basic commodities and cramped living conditions. The Situation Report on Condition of IDPs released by Save the Children shows that since January 2012, the registered caseload from Khyber Agency stands at 68,274 families, of which 9,263 families are accommodated in Jalozai camp and the remaining 59,011 families reside in the host communities. As of August 2, 2012, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and UNHCR report the overall IDP population of in camp and off camp displaced since 2009 (including the registered caseload from the new IDP influx from Khyber Agency) at 159,595 families, an overall increase of 1,614 families during the past two weeks. Power outages of 16-20 hours daily in most areas continue to add to their troubles as they survive without electricity. There is growing concern due to the recent food shortages that resulted in World Food Programme announcing that the size of the food baskets given as part of their food distribution initiatives will decrease. As access to basic services and facilities continue to be a challenge for the many vulnerable families who have been displaced.