UNITED NATIONS, April 21 (Xinhua) -- The overall security situation in the disputed Abyei region between Sudan and South Sudan remains calm, but there is a "trust deficit" between the two main communities, UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix told the Security Council on Thursday.

Lacroix spoke about the work of UNISFA, the UN Interim Security Force in the oil-rich border region, urging the council to extend its mandate for another six months, through Oct. 15.

In recent months, the force has supported dialogue between nomadic Misseriya and pastoral Ngok Dinka communities, including addressing recent instances of violence.

Intercommunal clashes claimed the lives of 29 people last week, and injured 30 more. "These deaths and injuries could have been avoided had there been more trust between the two communities at all levels," said Lacroix.

While UNISFA has continued its community engagement, stepped up patrols, and encouraged use of conflict resolution mechanisms, "it is - first and foremost - for the governments of the Sudan and South Sudan to renew their engagement on the final status of Abyei," he added.

Lacroix urged the council to continue to support the Abyei Joint Programme to promote areas of shared interest for the two communities, such as transhumance, border management, and protection mechanisms for women, children and vulnerable groups.

The program has made significant progress since it was proposed in September. Consultations with women, youth, elders, and other community members are at an advanced stage.

UNISFA continues to face challenges in documenting human rights violations due to a lack of expertise, Lacroix said, although a team was granted temporary visas in order to conduct an assessment mission last month.

According to Lacroix, the humanitarian situation in Abyei has deteriorated since his last briefing in October, with the number of people needing aid increasing from 103,000 to 240,000.

UNISFA also supports a Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, which ensures peace in the demilitarized zone along the border between Sudan and South Sudan.

In closing, Lacroix stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and security of UNISFA peacekeepers. During the past two months, patrols have suffered three direct attacks, including a rocket-propelled grenade attack last week.