The UN refugee agency UNHCR is "increasingly alarmed over growing humanitarian needs among those affected by the crisis in Sudan, as displacement numbers continue to surge while delivery of assistance remains heavily constricted by insecurity, lack of access and funding shortfalls," it said in a June 27 statement.

The agency said that over two and a half million people have been displaced by the conflict since fighting erupted on April 15. More than 560,000 people are seeking safety in neighbouring countries -- most in Egypt, followed by Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia and the Central African Republic. Nearly two million people have been displaced inside the country, according to UNHCR.

Violence spreads as crisis worsens in West Darfur

"In Sudan, ongoing fighting in the capital, Khartoum, and in the Darfur and Kordofan regions, has left many stranded and cut off from basic humanitarian assistance," said UNHCR, noting that it had received worrying reports of displaced civilians including refugees experiencing life-threatening obstacles while attempting to seek safety within the country and across borders.

"Due to the intensity of the conflict, vulnerable people on the move have been left with little choice than to flee in extremely dangerous and difficult conditions, risking physical abuse, theft and banditry, and in some cases, denied movement out of conflict areas and forced back into harm's way," the statement said.

The agency stressed that a lack of access to affected areas is blocking the provision of essential resources and services to vulnerable civilians.

"We are particularly concerned about the worsening situation in West Darfur, where according to reports from colleagues on the ground, the conflict has reached alarming levels, making it virtually impossible to deliver life-saving aid to the affected populations," UNHCR said.

Support to host countries but lack of funds

"Capacities at border reception and transit facilities in neighbouring countries have been strained due to the sheer numbers of people arriving, leading to overcrowding and further stretching of already limited resources," the statement noted.

Those fleeing Sudan reportedly arrive exhausted after days or sometimes weeks on the road and under shock by by the violence they have witnessed and in need of food, medical care and relief items.

"UNHCR and partners have scaled up efforts to address the needs of displaced populations inside and outside of Sudan. We are working closely with the government, other UN agencies, humanitarian partners and host communities to ensure the provision of emergency shelter, clean water, health care services, psychosocial support and other vital assistance."

UNHCR and partners said they have created safe spaces where individuals can access counselling and mental health support. Over 26,000 out of 120,000 individuals have reportedly been relocated from the border area to refugee camps while humanitarians continue to deliver critical emergency aid to those at the border, UNHCR noted.

The United Nations and partners have called for over $3 billion to help millions in Sudan and those fleeing to neighbouring countries.