Migrants stranded
BIHAC: Nearly 3000 migrants are stranded in northern Bosnia without shelter, the International Organisation for Migration said, and some are suffering from respiratory problems and other complications as nighttime temperatures plunge.
Some of those sleeping in the open were forced to flee Camp Lipa near the Croatian border two weeks ago when much of it was burned to the ground.
A few remain, relying on makeshift tent structures, while many more have left.
Others have spread out into nearby forests, hoping to cross the border and seek a better life in the European Union, of which Croatia is a member.
‘‘We watched with growing concern the dire humanitarian situation facing many migrants in Bosnia,’’ IOM spokesman Paul Dillon said.
‘‘IOM and its partners are providing support as best we can, but it’s clear that a sustainable longterm solution must be found.’’
Some people who have remained close to the damaged camp queued up yesterday for food being distributed by humanitarian aid groups.
Men huddled around fires made from scraps of wood, while others bathed in a nearby stream, shivering as they tried to dry off.
Suhret Fazlic, mayor of the town of Bihac, close to the camp, said his region was taking on a heavy burden which should be shared with other parts of the country. — Reuters