In Pakistan, the exodus of refugees is increasing as the army advances

As fighting between the Pakistani army and Taliban insurgents intensified in Swat valley, the flood of refugees is growing. According to figures of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 834 000 civilians have been displaced and 200 000 others are still trapped in Mingora, the largest city in the region. The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, said it is the largest displacement of people in Pakistan since its inception in 1947.

"They sacrificed themselves for the future, and every Pakistani is ready to help," added the Prime Minister about refugees. On site, the evidence collected from people fleeing the combat zones evoke a critical situation. "People get mad, the children and women cry, please, tell the government we get out of here," begged a dealer under the guise of anonymity, contacted by AFP.

In cities, the Islamist fighters had dug trenches in preparation for the military offensive and undermined the streets, both to slow the soldiers to prevent the inhabitants to flee. The army confirmed that it Mingora siege, but that ground troops have not yet penetrated. In the nineteenth day of its offensive, the army said it killed 54 Taliban, bringing the balance to 800 insurgents killed in nearly three weeks.