Kabul, 22 March (H.S.): Afghan officials in eastern Afghanistan say Pakistani forces have fired more than 100 rockets into parts of Afghanistan over the past three days, damaging civilian homes and heightening tensions along the Durand Line. Local authorities in the Kunar province accuse Pakistan of violating a temporary ceasefire by targeting the districts of Nari and Manogai, with stray gunfire reportedly displacing hundreds of people from their villages.

Kunar lies in northeastern Afghanistan, bordering Pakistan. It is known for its rugged terrain along the Hindu Kush mountain ranges and the Kunar River valley and is regarded as strategically important because of its steep, hard‑to‑access hills.

To the north of Kunar is the province of Nuristan, to the west lies Laghman, and to the south lies Nangarhar.

According to a report , Zia‑ur‑Rahman Spin Ghair, head of the Department of Information and Culture in Kunar, said that during the period of the ceasefire Pakistan had launched more than 100 rocket attacks on areas near the imaginary Durand Line, specifically in Nari and Manogai districts. He added that many residents had suffered financial losses, although, as of the latest reports, there were no confirmed civilian casualties.

Faridoun Samim, the spokesperson for the governor of Nuristan province, told reporters that in the past ordinary vehicles, including ambulances, could move freely along this route. Now, he claimed, Pakistani forces no longer allow people to travel and open fire on anyone who tries to use the road. “Any vehicle that moves along this route is targeted,” he said.

Residents of Kamdesh and Barg‑e‑Matl districts in Nuristan told local journalists that ongoing clashes have shut down roads and cut off normal movement. They say Pakistani forces shoot at anyone attempting to cross, making it extremely difficult to reach nearby towns or markets. One villager said that anyone trying to travel to Nuristan via this route is fired upon and not allowed to proceed.

Kunar officials estimate that sporadic shelling and gunfire by Pakistani forces near the Durand Line have displaced around 7,500 families. These displaced families have now set up makeshift tents along the banks of the Kunar River, where they are living in crowded, open‑air conditions.

Afghan authorities have so far not reported any fatalities linked directly to the recent rocket attacks, but describe the wave of displacement as a serious humanitarian concern.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar