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                        <title>K-P - FATA News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune</title>
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                        <description>Khyber pakhtunkhwa</description>
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			<title>3 injured in terrorist drone attack on cricket ground in K-P's Bajaur</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605869/3-injured-in-terrorist-drone-attack-on-cricket-ground-in-k-ps-bajaur</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605869/3-injured-in-terrorist-drone-attack-on-cricket-ground-in-k-ps-bajaur#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 26 16:51:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Attack was carried out using a quadcopter while a cricket match was in progress in Mamund tehsil]]>
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				<![CDATA[At least three people were injured in a terrorist&nbsp;drone attack&nbsp;on a cricket ground in the Mamund area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa&#39;s Bajaur district on Friday, according to state media.

According to state broadcaster PTV News, the attack was carried out using a quadcopter in the Shahi Tangi area of Mamund tehsil while a cricket match was in progress. The injured were immediately taken to a hospital for treatment.

Read: Five injured in Afghan cross-border shelling

It said that a press release issued by the Bajaur deputy commissioner&nbsp;said that over the past two months, mortar shells had been fired from the Afghan side into various border areas of the district, particularly Mamund and Slarzai.

It added that firing by the Afghan Taliban on the civilian population in Bajaur had resulted in the martyrdom of nine people, including three women and six children.

Local sources said quadcopters were being used to target civilians to spread fear and panic, adding that video evidence of such incidents had surfaced previously. They said the attack was deliberately timed during the cricket match.



فتنہ الخوارج کی بلا اشتعال جارحیت ،خیبرپختونخوا کی شہری آبادی پربزدلانہ حملوں کا تسلسل جاری

باجوڑ کے علاقے ماموند میں خوارج کی جانب سے کرکٹ گراؤنڈ پر کواڈ کاپٹر سے حملہ کیا گیا، جس کے نتیجے میں 3 افراد زخمی ہوئے۔
بزدلانہ حملے میں زخمی ہونے والے افراد کو فوری طور پر اسپتال&hellip; pic.twitter.com/qDWR8CC8wr
&mdash; PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) May 1, 2026


&ldquo;Such attacks reflect an inability to confront security forces directly, with civilians being targeted instead,&rdquo; the state broadcaster said, while adding that public anger was growing due to repeated incidents against civilian populations.

Following the incident, security in the area was placed on high alert. Security forces cordoned off the site and launched a search operation to track down those involved.

&ldquo;Security forces are conducting an effective response against such attacks, targeting militant positions and supporting infrastructure,&rdquo; PTV News reported.

Tribal elders and residents strongly condemned the attack and demanded the complete elimination of terrorists to ensure public safety.

Also Read: Pakistan Army responds to unprovoked aggression by Afghan Taliban: security sources

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemned today&#39;s incident.

&quot;The inhuman violent spate of deliberate targeting of innocent civilians by Afghans Taliban regime in border districts of K-P is unacceptable, insidious and reflective of their barbaric nature towards human life. Resorting to targeting civilian areas after being comprehensively beaten on ground by proud security forces of Pakistan and having no courage to face them is not only despicable but also speaks volumes of the low moral character of the regime leaders.&quot;

He said the Taliban regime&#39;s &quot;so-called representatives continue to lay frivolous false allegations of deliberate targeting of civilians by Pakistan&quot;.

Tarar said it was &quot;reported with a lot of clarity and evidence that Pakistan targets only terrorist infrastructure and information has been always promptly and transparently shared with the public, whenever Pakistan targets terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure under areas controlled by Afghan Taliban regime, while taking great care for any sort of civilian damage&quot;.



The inhuman violent spate of deliberate targeting of innocent civilians by Afghans Taliban regime in border districts of KP is unacceptable, insidious and reflective of their barbaric nature towards human life. Resorting to targeting civilian areas after being comprehensively&hellip; pic.twitter.com/1cPd7c6JeI
&mdash; Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) May 1, 2026



Earlier this week, security forces carried out retaliatory strikes at key sites, including the Ariana Complex, Dabgai check post, police headquarters, and Zakarkhel post, which were destroyed.

Pakistan Air Force also targeted positions in Laghman province, destroying an arms depot, the ABF battalion headquarters, and the Nangarhar brigade. Sources further said a Taliban post near the Mohmand sector was also destroyed, stressing that only Afghan military targets were hit in line with international law.

On April 15, three civilians, including two children, were martyred and three others were injured when Afghan Taliban forces carried out unprovoked shelling on locals in a border area of K-P&#39;s Bajaur district, according to state media.

The incident marked a renewed episode of cross-border aggression after a gap of over a month, following Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, launched in response to earlier unprovoked hostility from the Afghan side.

Operation Ghazab Lil Haq was launched around the end of February following renewed clashes along the Pak-Afghan border, after Afghan Taliban forces fired on multiple locations, prompting swift military retaliation by Pakistan.

Read: 13 terrorists neutralised in two infiltration bids on K-P&#39;s Pak-Afghan border: ISPR

The neighbouring countries were engaged in escalating hostilities along the frontier since then. The clashes intensified after Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes targeting terrorist positions and abated during a temporary ceasefire on the occasion of Eidul Fitr.

The escalation in tensions between the two countries followed a series of tit-for-tat actions over the past year.

Pakistan earlier carried out air strikes targeting camps of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State Khorasan Province inside Afghanistan after a wave of attacks, including a suicide bombing in Islamabad.

Islamabad has long maintained that TTP leaders operate from Afghan territory, an allegation that Kabul has repeatedly denied.

Tensions also surged after a series of explosions in Kabul on October 9 last year. Taliban forces subsequently targeted areas along Pakistan&#39;s border, prompting Islamabad to respond with cross-border shelling.

The exchanges caused casualties and infrastructure damage on both sides and led to the suspension of trade after border crossings were closed on October 12, 2025.]]>
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			<title>2 new polio cases confirmed in K-P as total reaches three in 2026</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605845/2-new-polio-cases-confirmed-in-k-p-as-total-reaches-three-in-2026</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605845/2-new-polio-cases-confirmed-in-k-p-as-total-reaches-three-in-2026#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 26 12:40:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Razya Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Fresh cases reported in Bannu and North Waziristan, posing a continued risk to children’s well-being]]>
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				<![CDATA[The National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication (NEOC) confirmed two new cases of wild poliovirus in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Friday.

The cases were reported&nbsp;in Bannu and North Waziristan,&nbsp;where access constraints continue to aid poliovirus transmission, posing a continued risk to children&rsquo;s well-being.

Pakistan has reported three polio cases so far in 2026. Since the launch of the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) in 1994,&nbsp;Pakistan has reduced polio cases by 99.8% &mdash; from 20,000 estimated cases in the early 1990s to 31 in 2025.

The two new cases were reported through the poliovirus surveillance network and confirmed by the WHO-accredited Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Islamabad. The affected children belonged to the Jani Khel union council of Bannu and the Garyom union council of North Waziristan districts.

Read: First wild polio case of 2026 confirmed in Sindh

While overall poliovirus transmission in the country has been declining, with cases falling from 74 in 2024 to 31 in 2025 and three so far in 2026, reflecting the impact of high-quality vaccination drives, virus circulation in southern K-P persists.

These detections underscore the continued need for robust and targeted efforts to interrupt transmission and the importance of consistent vaccination for children everywhere in the country. No child in Pakistan will be safe until every child is safe.

The PEI&nbsp;is already analysing the best science-based response to reach and immunise children in this region and prevent further poliovirus transmission. In addition, the PEI is implementing alternate strategies in southern K-P, including integrated service delivery of health services like nutrition, routine immunisation, maternal and child health, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), as well as a community-based polio vaccination initiative to increase vaccination rates and build immunity.

Polio is a highly contagious and incurable disease that can cause lifelong paralysis and, in some instances, even death. However, the disease can be prevented thanks to polio vaccines, which are safe and effective and have been used safely in 195 countries, including all Muslim countries.

Also Read: Why 40000 Karachi families refused the polio vaccine

In 2026, Pakistan has already implemented two nationwide polio campaigns that protected approximately 45 million children, while the next campaign is planned in May to immunise nearly 19m&nbsp;children.

Polio eradication is a collective responsibility. While Pakistan&rsquo;s dedicated frontline workers ensure that vaccines reach every child, parents and caregivers play a crucial role by making sure their children receive all recommended doses, including routine immunisations. The PEI urges all parents and caregivers to ensure that their children are vaccinated during every campaign to protect them from lifelong disability and/or death.]]>
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			<title>Police officer martyred, two injured in rocket attack on police vehicle in Bannu</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605817/police-officer-martyred-two-injured-in-rocket-attack-on-police-vehicle-in-bannu</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605817/police-officer-martyred-two-injured-in-rocket-attack-on-police-vehicle-in-bannu#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 26 05:47:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ramzan Seemab]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605817</guid>
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				<![CDATA[DPO says attack followed by intense firing, explosions, Miryan Road closed to traffic]]>
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				<![CDATA[One police constable was martyred and two police personnel were injured on Friday when terrorists targeted a police vehicle in a rocket attack at Kangar Jan Bahadur in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa&#39;s Bannu, according to police.

According to Bannu District Police Officer (DPO) Yasir Afridi, &quot;The incident occurred when a police vehicle from the Fateh Khel checkpoint came under rocket attack while personnel were returning to Police Lines&quot;.

Constable (driver) Raza Ali Shah was martyred in the attack, while two others sustained injuries and were shifted to DHQ Hospital for treatment.

Afridi said the attack was followed by intense firing and explosions, prompting the closure of Miryan Road to traffic. Security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search and combing operation.

Later, the funeral prayer of martyred constable Raza Ali Shah was offered with full official honours at Iqbal Shaheed Police Lines, attended by senior civil and military officials, police officers, and family members. A guard of honour was presented, and floral wreaths were laid on the coffin.

Read: Four terrorists killed, one police officer martyred in separate IBOs in K-P

Bannu Deputy Inspector General&nbsp;Sajjad Khan and DPO Afridi paid tribute to the martyred officer, stating that Raza Ali Shah was a dedicated and brave officer who sacrificed his life for peace and stability in the country. They reiterated that operations against terrorism would continue until it is completely eradicated.

K-P has been battling terrorism since the United States&#39; ouster from Afghanistan, with terrorists often crossing the border to target police convoys and vehicles, resulting in the deaths of several officials and personnel.

On April 20, a police constable was martyred in the Akhundan forest civil camp area near the Bannu border during a Counter Terrorism Department intelligence-based operation.

On April 6, two police personnel and a security guard were martyred in separate firing incidents in Bannu. The first attack occurred outside a National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) office in the Baka Khel area, where gunmen opened fire on security staff. Two officers, Constable Rafiullah and security guard Gul Shah Noor, were killed at the scene.

In a separate incident near the Miryan Kinger police station, another police constable, Sher Muhammad, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen.

The province has witnessed a surge in terrorist attacks, accounting for the highest number of incidents in the country. Out of a total of 5,397 reported incidents last year, K-P recorded 3,811, followed by Balochistan with 1,557 incidents. Only 29 incidents were reported from the rest of the country. A total of 2,597 terrorists were killed during the year.]]>
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			<title>K-P Assembly passes 3 bills as CM Afridi calls for end to drone strikes</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605722/k-p-assembly-passes-3-bills-as-cm-afridi-calls-for-end-to-drone-strikes</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605722/k-p-assembly-passes-3-bills-as-cm-afridi-calls-for-end-to-drone-strikes#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 19:23:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahida Parveen]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605722</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Announces grand tribal Loya Jirga for Saturday, plans to introduce legislation for legal action over drone damages]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Thursday unanimously passed three bills as Chief Minister Sohail Afridi made an appeal for cross-party cooperation to end drone strikes in terrorism-hit areas.

The session, chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, saw the passage of the K-P Assembly Powers, Privileges and Immunities (Amendment) Bill 2026, alongside two related bills governing speaker and member salaries and allowances.

Law Minister Aftab Alam presented all three, incorporating an amendment by Pakistan Peoples Party leader Ahmed Kundi.

Speaker Swati declared the moment a turning point in provincial history.

&ldquo;Constitutional requirements delayed since 1973 have been fulfilled,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;This assembly has accomplished in two years what could not be achieved in the last 50 years.&rdquo;

He thanked National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and his own team for modernising rules that had remained untouched since 1974.

Read: K-P jirga rejects drone strikes, announces emergency assembly session

However, the session&rsquo;s most charged moment came when CM Afridi took the floor against drone strikes. &ldquo;For three days, drones circled over my house,&rdquo; he revealed. &ldquo;Whenever I announce a visit to Punjab or plan a rally, attacks begin.&rdquo;

He acknowledged legal constraints, noting that he could not file a case against drone strikes due to constitutional protections. However, he announced plans to introduce legislation allowing legal action for damages caused by drones.

&ldquo;When civilians are harmed by drones, I receive messages saying &lsquo;I am sorry&rsquo; and &lsquo;this is unfortunate&rsquo; &mdash; mere words are not enough,&rdquo; he said.





Reciting poetry in the assembly, CM Afridi declared that he did not fear difficulties and challenges. &ldquo;The real test is navigating the ship to shore under adverse conditions,&rdquo; he said, vowing to steer the province through crises despite all obstacles.

Afridi argued that drone strikes did not reduce terrorism but instead fuelled it. &ldquo;Innocent citizens, especially children, are targeted, breeding grief, anger, and a desire for revenge among the people,&rdquo; he warned.

Announcing a grand tribal Loya Jirga for Saturday, the chief minister sought opposition support for a joint action plan. &ldquo;I will continue raising my voice for the rights of this province&rsquo;s people, even if it costs me my seat or my life,&rdquo; he vowed.

Speaker Swati concluded by emphasising that legislation remained the assembly&rsquo;s exclusive constitutional authority.

&ldquo;Courts can only interpret. No restrictions can be imposed on this power,&rdquo; he said, cementing what many were calling a defining session for K-P&rsquo;s parliamentary future.]]>
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			<title>K-P outsources hospital diagnostics under PPP</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605559/k-p-outsources-hospital-diagnostics-under-ppp</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605559/k-p-outsources-hospital-diagnostics-under-ppp#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 26 21:29:12 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahida Parveen]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605559</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Six hospitals to get MRI, CT scanners; 72 more facilities lined up to end patient woes]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to outsource diagnostic facilities in public hospitals across the province, following the earlier outsourcing of hospital management services, officials told The Express Tribune.

The Health Department has initially selected six government hospitals where MRI and CT scan machines will be installed under a public-private partnership to ensure uninterrupted diagnostic services for patients. The outsourcing will be executed through the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Foundation.

According to official sources, District Headquarters Hospital Kohat, DHQ Swat, DHQ Batkhela, and DHQ Malakand will receive both MRI and CT scan machines. Additionally, Tehsil Headquarters Hospital Takht Bhai in Mardan and Category-D Hospital Garh Tajak in Peshawar will be provided with CT scanners. DHQ Timergara will receive an MRI machine along with a scanner.

Provincial Health Minister Khaliqur Rehman stated that this initiative aligns with the government&#39;s policy to enhance the quality and scope of healthcare facilities through public-private partnerships, particularly in underserved areas.

&quot;These machines are extremely expensive, and procuring them in such large numbers for six hospitals was not feasible through traditional means. Hence, the PPP option is being utilized,&quot; the minister explained.

Under the reform agenda, the government aims to improve patient access to modern diagnostic imaging facilities with private sector collaboration. The move is expected to reduce patient referrals, improve the quality of medical decision-making, and minimise out-of-pocket expenses for citizens.

The minister revealed that the Health Foundation has already outsourced 24 hospitals so far, most of which are in merged districts where service improvements have been observed. The Health Department has prepared a list of 72 additional hospitals to be handed over under the PPP model in the future. Monitoring systems for all these hospitals are being strengthened.

Sources indicate that the absence of diagnostic services in major district hospitals has not only caused immense difficulties for patients but has also led to overwhelming crowds at Peshawar&#39;s three major tertiary care hospitals, including Lady Reading Hospital. Patients are often given long waiting dates for diagnostic tests, causing distress to countless families.

The complex procurement procedures of the Health Department have also resulted in months-long delays for even minor equipment repairs, sources added.

Under the PPP arrangement, partner organisations will be responsible for machine maintenance and ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.]]>
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			<title>Bajaur woman makes history with PAS allocation in CSS 2025</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605707/tribal-woman-makes-history-with-pas-allocation-in-css-2025</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605707/tribal-woman-makes-history-with-pas-allocation-in-css-2025#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 17:17:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ahtesham Khan  ]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605707</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[24-year-old clears exam on first try, secures top post, brings pride to tribal district]]>
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				<![CDATA[In a major milestone for the tribal districts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Muneeba Hussain became the first woman from Bajaur to be allocated to the Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS) after successfully clearing the Central Superior Services (CSS 2025) examination.

The 24-year-old candidate passed the competitive exam in her first attempt, securing a position in the top occupational group and bringing pride to the tribal district.

Daughter of Dr Muhammad Arshad Hussain, Muneeba belongs to Wara Mamond in Bajaur. She holds a BS degree in English Linguistics from the National University of Modern Languages.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, her father said that Muneeba had set her sights on CSS at an early stage. &ldquo;She completed her FSc from Islamia College Peshawar and from the very first day of her higher education, she was determined to pursue CSS. She worked day and night to achieve this goal,&rdquo; he said.

Read More: FPSC notifies 327 posts for CSS 2025

He added that consistent hard work, coupled with family support and prayers &mdash; particularly from her grandfather &mdash; played a key role in her success. &ldquo;Hard work never goes to waste. Even in today&rsquo;s fast-changing, technology-driven world, students who remain focused on their education can achieve their goals,&rdquo; he remarked.

Muneeba termed her achievement a moment of pride for her family and province. She said her ambition had always been to accomplish something meaningful and make her family proud. Driven by a deep love for books and learning, she pursued CSS as a mission and achieved her goal.

Her success is being widely seen as an inspiration for young women, particularly in the tribal districts, where access to higher education and competitive opportunities remains limited.]]>
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			<title>Bara schools fail girls amid shortages</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603668/bara-schools-fail-girls-amid-shortages</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603668/bara-schools-fail-girls-amid-shortages#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 26 21:17:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khadim Afridi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2603668</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Teacher shortages, missing facilities, and neglect cripple learning in Khyber district]]>
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				<![CDATA[Girls&#39; education in Khyber district, particularly in Bara tehsil, is confronting serious challenges. While a large number of educational institutions exist on paper, the severe shortage of basic facilities, teaching staff, and modern learning opportunities has badly affected the entire education system.

According to official statistics, there are 420 government girls&#39; schools in Khyber district. In Bara tehsil alone, there are 132 girls&#39; primary schools, nine middle schools, five high schools, and only one girls&#39; higher secondary school. More than 22,000 girls are enrolled at the primary level, while around 6,000 students are studying from Class 6 to Second Year. The tehsil also has one solitary girls&#39; degree college.

Sub-Divisional Education Officer Bara, Dr Sher Zaman Afridi, acknowledged that most school buildings are complete and basic facilities are available. However, the acute shortage of teaching staff remains a major problem. He revealed that girls&#39; primary schools in Bara are short of more than 500 teachers, which is badly affecting the education of female students.

Dr Afridi stressed the urgent need for local recruitment of teachers to fill this gap. He added that the shortage of subject specialist teachers, especially science teachers, at the high and higher secondary levels has also become critical. According to provincial policy, there should be one higher secondary school every 12 kilometres, but Bara currently has only one girls&#39; higher secondary school, located in Klanga Akakhel.

The only girls&#39; degree college in Bara has failed to meet modern educational standards. Principal Zarqa Shabir told The Express Tribune the college is affiliated with Benazir Women University and currently has around 400 students enrolled. However, only the BS Urdu programme is running, with just 18 students admitted.

The principal pointed out that the absence of science and computer laboratories has prevented the launch of other BS programmes. Despite repeatedly bringing the matter to the attention of the government, particularly Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, no practical steps have been taken so far.

Other serious issues include the lack of transport, security, and non-teaching staff. The college has only two police personnel for security, which is highly insufficient. Repeated requests made to the District Police Officer (DPO) Khyber for enhanced security have gone unanswered.

Meanwhile, social activist Torab Ali Afridi from the mountainous Upper Bara area said that although schools exist in many places, they are lying deserted due to the complete absence of teaching staff. As a result, both boys and girls are being deprived of basic education. Despite multiple complaints to the authorities, no progress has been made.

On the other hand, senior Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam leader Maulana Syed Jaleel Afridi, while highlighting the problems of students affected by displacement in Tirah Valley, said education is a fundamental right of every human being. However, children in the former tribal districts, especially in Bara and Tirah Valley, are being denied this right.

He revealed that thousands of families who migrated from Tirah Valley due to recent unrest have been without educational facilities for more than four months. He demanded that the government take immediate emergency steps to restore educational activities for the affected students.

He noted that in tribal society, girls&#39; education is now being given considerable importance, and any further delay would be highly damaging.

Repeated attempts were made to obtain comments from elected public representatives and concerned officials, but no response was received.]]>
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			<title>2,000 'flexible' lecturers risk losing jobs</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2602819/2000-flexible-lecturers-risk-losing-jobs</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2602819/2000-flexible-lecturers-risk-losing-jobs#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 26 19:54:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2602819</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[K-P govt refuses to convert their status as ad hoc]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The government on Tuesday informed the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly that it would not convert the status of around 2,000 employees of the education department, initially hired as temporary or &quot;flexible&quot; lecturers into ad hoc positions.

The K-P Higher Education Department hired the lecturers under a stop-gap arrangement to address teacher shortages in government colleges.

The treasury faced an awkward situation in the provincial assembly when one of its members supported a calling attention notice submitted by the opposition.

Taking the floor, PPP parliamentary leader Ahmed Kundi, in his notice, stated that the government had allocated funds to address shortage of teachers in government degree colleges and recruited approximately 2,000 flexibly hired lecturers. &quot;Currently, these lecturers are teaching BS and AD programs in 330 colleges.&quot;

He said there was ambiguity with regard to the duration of their employment and salaries, urging the government to convert their postings to ad hoc basis to ensure job security at least for one year.

He added that if the lecturers were dismissed, students&#39; education would be severely affected, as the lecturers had become an integral part of the academic system.

In response, Law Minister Aftab Alam clarified that recruitment in the Higher Education Department follows a formal procedure, while the flexible hiring policy was introduced only for emergency situations to prevent disruption of students&#39; academic time.

He stated that, according to the government policy, the lecturers could not be directly converted to permanent or ad hoc positions.

He explained that ad hoc appointments were often challenged in courts, increasing pressure on the government to regularise them.

Moreover, the minister said the provincial salary budget has already risen significantly. He added that there was a clear procedure for appointing permanent employment and that is through the Public Service Commission.

Supporting Kundi&#39;s calling attention notice, treasury member Munir Luqmani said that if the government needs to recruit lecturers again, it should first adjust those currently serving as teachers through an appropriate mechanism.

Due to prolonged discussion and absence of the Minister for Higher Education, the presiding officer postponed the matter until the next session of the assembly.

Resolution

The assembly also passed a unanimous resolution, urging the federal government to take immediate action regarding the payment of wages and release of 6,000 Pakistani workers imprisoned in Saudi Arabia.

The resolution was presented by ANP member Nisar Baz. It stated that the house expressed concern over the situation of thousands of Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia who are facing various difficulties. Despite fulfilling all legal requirements, they are experiencing delays in wage payments and other issues.

It was reported that around 6,000 workers have not received their salaries for several months, causing severe distress and financial pressure on their families.

The assembly urged the federal government to intervene immediately in the matter and, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contact Saudi authorities to ensure the payment of wages to Pakistani workers.

The resolution also demanded that emergency measures be taken to resolve the issues faced by the affected workers so that they can resume their employment activities with dignity.]]>
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			<title>Decision to segregate campuses sparks debate</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601374/decision-to-segregate-campuses-sparks-debate</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601374/decision-to-segregate-campuses-sparks-debate#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 26 16:46:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Wisal Yousafzai]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2601374</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Academic community denounces the order as impractical, regressive, and damaging to academic freedom]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Universities and colleges are supposed to be safe spaces for students&mdash;but a recent move by authorities has upended that expectation. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Higher Education Department has sparked outrage by banning male teachers from holding one-on-one meetings with female students in their offices, a decision that has ignited fierce backlash across campuses.

The Political Science Department at Islamia College Peshawar was the first to enforce the directive. It instantly prompted criticism as it left securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Higher Education Department (HED) beforehand the only possible way for a meeting, placing bureaucratic barriers between female students and male faculty.

Arooj Khan, a student at the University of Peshawar, said, &ldquo;This notification makes no sense. It reflects a troubling mindset within the province&rsquo;s education authorities.&rdquo;

She added, &ldquo;It illustrates how our educational institutions, and particularly the HED, still think in terms of restrictions rather than trust and professionalism. Teachers are like parents to us. How can you impose such limitations in a university environment?&rdquo;

Khan, who is currently pursuing her PhD, questioned how research students would function under such a policy. &ldquo;If I cannot sit with my supervisor to discuss my research, how am I supposed to complete my thesis? Research requires continuous dialogue, feedback, and close academic engagement. Will I now need official permission every time I want to discuss my work?&rdquo; she asked.

She shared, &ldquo;It is unclear who in the department drafted such a notification without considering ground realities.&rdquo; Khizar Khan, a student at the University of Agriculture Peshawar, described the move as &ldquo;extremely foolish&rdquo; and symptomatic of a deeper societal problem. &ldquo;We are studying in co-educational institutions. If parents have concerns, they can enrol their daughters in women-only universities. Why impose blanket restrictions on everyone?&rdquo;

Questioning the logic behind the directive, he added: &ldquo;If this is meant to prevent harassment, cases have also occurred in women&rsquo;s universities. Will we segregate everything? This is not a practical solution. It should be withdrawn immediately.&rdquo;

Faculty members also voiced strong reservations. Dr Muhammad Uzair, Assistant Professor at the University of Peshawar and former president of the Peshawar University Teachers Association, termed the notification &ldquo;deeply flawed and ambiguous&rdquo;.

&ldquo;If the argument is that this will reduce harassment cases, then by that logic, should we shut down motorways because accidents happen there?&rdquo; he remarked.

Dr Uzair argued that harassment must be addressed through proper mechanisms, transparent complaint systems, and enforcement of existing laws, not through blanket bans that undermine academic interaction. He called for the immediate withdrawal of the notification.

Advocate Mehvish Mohib Kakhel stated, &ldquo;The move violates fundamental rights,&rdquo; questioning how a student could be denied access to a teacher for academic guidance.

She noted, &ldquo;If universities or the HED aim to curb harassment cases on campuses, surveillance measures such as installing CCTV cameras in universities and departments should be considered&rdquo;. She hoped the notification would be challenged in court.

Read More: Universities in K-P: from crisis to collapse?

On the other hand, Dr Amirullah Khan, Associate Professor and Chairman of the Political Science Department at Islamia College Peshawar, confirmed that his department was the first to implement the HED directive, but clarified that this did not amount to an endorsement.

&ldquo;We implemented it because the directive came from the HED. Personally, I am not in favour of it,&rdquo; he said.

Dr Khan observed that political and administrative tensions within universities were being passed on to teachers and students.

Pointing to broader changes in governance, he said, &ldquo;Previously, universities were under the governor&rsquo;s oversight. However, after legislation passed by the ruling party in the provincial assembly, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa now serves as the chancellor.&rdquo;

He criticised silence from other university administrations, alleging, &ldquo;Some vice chancellors have remained quiet, possibly because they receive substantial salaries and benefits and do not want to risk their positions by speaking out.&rdquo;

Despite repeated attempts to contact the vice chancellor of Islamia College Peshawar, and relevant HED officials, no response was received.]]>
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			<title>No burial space for minorities</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601372/no-burial-space-for-minorities</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601372/no-burial-space-for-minorities#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 26 16:35:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Wisal Yousafzai]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2601372</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Overcrowded cemeteries and rising encroachments are forcing families to bury their dead in reused graves]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[While for many, death brings the certainty of a final resting place, for the Christian community, even securing a grave becomes another ordeal, raising not only serious ethical concerns but also about the value of minority life in the country.

According to Imran Yousaf Masih, a college lecturer, families sometimes have no choice but to quietly bury their dead in overcrowded areas or reopen old graves. This is so because &ldquo;Some cemeteries have been encroached upon by land grabbers, reducing the already scarce space available for burials, while in the graveyards that remain intact, the available plots have long been filled,&rdquo; he said.

The city&rsquo;s Christian graveyards date back to before 1947. Among the few burial sites that exist are the Gora Graveyard, Wazir Bagh Graveyard, Kohati Graveyard, and Nauthia Graveyard. These historic cemeteries were established during the colonial period and were designed to serve much smaller populations, Yousaf added.

In certain cases, bones from older graves are removed so that new burials can take place in the same plot, making the situation painful and humiliating, he expressed. &ldquo;The process can also lead to conflict, as relatives of those previously buried in the graves may object if they learn their loved one&rsquo;s resting place has been disturbed. Despite these risks, many families feel they have no alternative,&rdquo; he said.

Zulfiqar Masih, who lives in the University Town area and works as a Class-IV employee in a government institution, said, &ldquo;We are tired of protesting and repeatedly asking the government for a graveyard.&rdquo; He added, &ldquo;We are also Pakistanis and civilized citizens of this country, yet we are still struggling to obtain what should be a basic right.&rdquo;

Zulfiqar pointed out that the problem is not limited to the Christian community alone. Members of other minority faiths, including Hindus and Sikhs, also face similar challenges due to the lack of dedicated burial spaces. He noted, &ldquo;The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has ruled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) multiple times and has made announcements regarding facilities for minorities, but the promises have yet to be fully implemented.&rdquo;

Read More: KP approves Rs8.6 billion package for minority welfare

According to the country&rsquo;s 2023 digital census, religious minorities make up about 3.3% of the national population. The largest number of minorities live in Punjab, with approximately 2.46 million people, followed by Sindh with around 547,000. In K-P, the minority population stands at about 134,900, while Islamabad has approximately 97,300, and Balochistan has around 62,700 residents belonging to minority faiths.

Reflecting on unfulfilled promises, Haroon Sarabdyal, a social worker advocating for the rights of the Hindu community, shared, &ldquo;The provincial government had previously pledged approximately 1.13 billion rupees for the development of minority graveyards. However, nothing concrete has materialised.&rdquo;

Sarabdyal also raised concerns about the location of land that has been proposed for minority burial grounds. &ldquo;In some cases,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;authorities have offered land far outside Peshawar, making it difficult and potentially unsafe for minority families to visit the graves of their loved ones.&rdquo; He warned that such arrangements could create security risks for communities that already feel vulnerable.

He urged the provincial government and the Auqaf Department to take immediate action and ensure proper burial facilities for all minority communities, including Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs. Without meaningful steps, he warned, minority groups may be forced to take their protests to the streets to demand their rights.

One of the main problems, according to Sarabdyal, is that no minority member currently holds a ministerial position in the K-P government, leaving communities without a direct voice to present their grievances. &ldquo;If there is no representative in the government to hear our concerns, then who are we supposed to turn to?&rdquo; he asked.

Despite repeated efforts to contact provincial government spokesperson Shafi Jan, no response was received regarding the concerns raised by minority communities.]]>
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			<title>17 nursing students faint after gas leak in Abbottabad</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2589936/17-nursing-students-faint-after-gas-leak-in-abbottabad</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2589936/17-nursing-students-faint-after-gas-leak-in-abbottabad#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 26 17:11:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[ZUBAIR AYUB]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2589936</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Five are said to be in critical condition while 12 stay under observation]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[At least 17 students of the Government Nursing School in&nbsp;Abbottabad&nbsp;fainted during a class after inhaling a suspected discharge of chemical from the Sui gas supply. Five of the affected students are reported to be in critical condition, while the remaining are said to be out of danger.

According to initial reports, the incident occurred during class hours when a strong, noxious odour spread in the classroom. The affected students immediately experienced severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing, before collapsing.

The incident was promptly reported to Ayub Medical Complex, which dispatched ambulances and medical personnel to the school. All 17 students were transferred to the hospital for emergency treatment.

Hospital authorities confirmed that after receiving initial medical attention, one student was shifted to the Medical ICU, two were admitted to the CCU, one was moved to Medical Ward C, and thirteen were kept under emergency observation.

Medical Director Professor Dr Saqib Malik and Hospital Director Dr Dawood Iqbal, together with Dr Goharur Rehman, stated that the students lost consciousness following exposure to a chemical mixed in the gas supply.

Dr Rehman added that upon contacting Sui Gas authorities, they were informed that only a &#39;routine chemical&#39; had been injected in the gas supply. However, hospital officials maintained that the severity of the students&rsquo; symptoms was inconsistent with exposure to a standard precautionary odourant.

Responding to the incident, Sui Gas Department spokesperson Sajjad Ahmed said that a special odourant is injected into the gas solely as a safety measure to alert users in the event of leakage.

He clarified that the leakage was internal, confined to the classroom, and no similar complaints had been received from other areas of the city. He added that responsibility for internal leaks lies with the user.

Ahmed further confirmed that the senior management of Sui Gas Abbottabad, including General Manager Rehmatullah and the operations head, visited the site with a technical team to conduct a thorough inspection.

During the inspection, officials observed that a large waste drain from nearby small-scale industries runs adjacent to the hostel building. Authorities are examining the possibility of external pipeline leakage, particularly in areas affected by contaminated water.

Ahmed also confirmed that all affected students are out of danger and recovering fast. He said that and that the entire building had been checked to ensure there is no further leakage. Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the incident.]]>
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			<title>Teacher breaks student's arms over homework</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603670/teacher-breaks-students-arms-over-homework</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603670/teacher-breaks-students-arms-over-homework#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 26 21:17:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2603670</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Accused teacher beat 5th grader at Government Primary School Osherai Dara Sadiqa Banda Bela]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In yet another incident of corporal punishment, a government primary school teacher in the remote area of Osherai Dara, Dir Upper district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, allegedly broke both arms of a fifth-grade student for not completing his homework.

The disturbing images and video of the violence quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage.

According to police, the accused teacher, Sultan Nabi, severely beat 5th grader Adnan Khan at Government Primary School Osherai Dara Sadiqa Banda Bela. The brutal assault left the young student with injuries to both his arms.]]>
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			<title>PTI leaders acquitted in May 9 case</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594032/pti-leaders-acquitted-in-may-9-case</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594032/pti-leaders-acquitted-in-may-9-case#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 22 Feb 26 20:24:58 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[MUHAMMAD SHOAIB]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2594032</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Charges were later amended, with the anti-terrorism provisions removed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In a significant development related to the May 9, 2023 protests, an Additional Sessions Judge in Chauta Lahore (Swabi circuit) has acquitted former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, several provincial ministers, and more than 250 leaders and workers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) from Swabi district.

The cases stemmed from alleged vandalism and other offenses at the Swabi Interchange during PTI&#39;s nationwide demonstrations on May 9. Police at Lahore police station registered an FIR against over 252 named individuals under various sections, initially including anti-terrorism charges. Of those implicated, 62 workers were arrested and spent about a month in custody, while 117 had already been released earlier.

The charges were later amended, with the anti-terrorism provisions removed. The police submitted the challan (charge sheet) to the Additional Sessions Judge, and court proceedings were underway with dates fixed for appearances.

According to sources, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provincial government, led by PTI, directed the public prosecutor to withdraw the prosecution&#39;s case against the accused. Following the formal request for withdrawal, the court accepted it and acquitted all the named individuals.]]>
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			<title>Constable killed in siblings' scuffle</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2593882/constable-killed-in-siblings-scuffle</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2593882/constable-killed-in-siblings-scuffle#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 26 20:46:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2593882</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Fahim Marwat of Masti Khel tribe, sustained severe injuries in clash]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[In a heartbreaking turn of events in the rural village of Wanda Mudat, Panyala area on the outskirts of Dera Ismail Khan, a fierce altercation between two brothers escalated tragically, resulting in the deaths of Frontier Constabulary solider and a police constable who attempted to intervene.

According to local sources, during the heated dispute between the siblings, Ijaz Marwat stepped in to mediate and restore peace. Unfortunately, he was fatally injured at the scene and succumbed to his wounds on the spot. One of the brothers, Fahim Marwat son of Muhammad Ahmad Jan of the Masti Khel tribe, sustained severe injuries in the clash.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/kp-police1674145542-0/kp-police1674145542-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>K-P reopens major roads after PHC order</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2593329/k-p-reopens-major-roads-after-phc-order</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2593329/k-p-reopens-major-roads-after-phc-order#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 26 20:49:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Yasir Ali]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2593329</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[PTI protesters dispersed; traffic restored on motorways, highways following directive]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government informed the Peshawar High Court (PHC) that all motorways and major highways blocked due to protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers have now been cleared and reopened for traffic.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Advocate General Shah Faisal Utmankhel submitted a report to the court, stating that traffic is flowing smoothly across the province. Protesters have been removed from roads, and all routes are open to vehicular movement.

The hearing took place before a two-member bench comprising Justice Ijaz Anwar and Justice Farah Jamshed on petitions challenging the road blockages caused by PTI sit-ins. Appearing before the court were Advocate General Shah Faisal Utmankhel, Additional Attorney General Sanaullah, Additional Advocate General Muhammad Inam Yusufzai, and counsels for the petitioners including Tariq Afghan, Barrister Hudaifa Ahmed, Intikhab Chamkani, Shahid Ali Yaftai, Barrister Yasin Reza, along with petitioners Subia Shahid, Yusuf Khan, Shaur Wardag, and Muhammad Bilal.

The Advocate General informed the bench that reports from all regions had been received and placed on record. He added that the Inspector General of Police had issued instructions the previous day to all officers to clear the roads, resulting in all routes being reopened.

Justice Ijaz Anwar remarked that the roads had not been fully cleared until late the previous night. Petitioners&#39; counsel Tariq Afghan stated that the Swabi motorway had also been reopened, confirming that all routes were now accessible. However, he highlighted that during the closures, patients had tragically passed away en-route, yet no FIRs had been registered against those responsible.

In response, Justice Ijaz Anwar noted that no such case had come before the court yet, but any matter brought forward would be examined in accordance with the law.

Petitioners&#39; counsel urged the court to issue directions preventing future road blockages during protests, so citizens would not have to approach the courts repeatedly. Justice Ijaz Anwar observed that K-P suffers from the worst traffic situation in Pakistan, where any protest leads to the complete shutdown of cities.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/pakistan-tehreek-e-insaf-sit-in-outside-khyber-pak1771246610-0/pakistan-tehreek-e-insaf-sit-in-outside-khyber-pak1771246610-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Kundi calls dialogue key to peace</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2593331/kundi-calls-dialogue-key-to-peace</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2593331/kundi-calls-dialogue-key-to-peace#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 26 20:49:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2593331</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to fostering excellent relations, promoting trade with all neighboring countries.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi emphasized the need for political dialogue with Afghanistan, stating that sustainable peace in the region depends on leaders from neighboring countries coming together to resolve both internal and external issues.

Speaking as the chief guest at a dialogue session organized by the Department of International Relations at the University of Peshawar on &quot;Pakistan-Afghanistan Security, Trade, and Regional Economic Affairs,&quot; Governor Kundi highlighted that a peaceful Afghanistan is not only vital for Pakistan but for the entire region. He reaffirmed Pakistan&#39;s commitment to fostering excellent relations and promoting trade with Afghanistan and all neighboring countries.

&quot;Sustainable peace across the region is essential for economic and business progress,&quot; he said. &quot;We stand for the best possible relations and the expansion of commercial activities with Afghanistan and other neighbors.&quot;]]>
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			<title>K-P CM rolls out online open courts beginning from Bajaur</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2585091/k-p-cm-rolls-out-online-open-courts-beginning-from-bajaur</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2585091/k-p-cm-rolls-out-online-open-courts-beginning-from-bajaur#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 26 07:56:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2585091</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[CM orders enforcement of fare lists, doctor attendance and wage policy]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has launched a series of online open courts, beginning from Bajaur district, to hear public complaints and issue directions to the relevant authorities.

During the inaugural session, Afridi directed officials to resolve public complaints within 14 days and submit detailed reports. &ldquo;We are moving forward on the pattern of our leader Imran Khan&rsquo;s vision, &lsquo;Your Prime Minister with you,&rsquo;&rdquo; he said.

He ordered immediate action on complaints related to a lack of basic facilities in schools and staff absenteeism, and directed that issues faced by second-shift teachers be resolved on a priority basis

Read: Sohail Afridi unveils plan to transform Peshawar into a heritage-friendly city

Afridi also directed the implementation of the minimum monthly wage policy and instructed that salaries be transferred directly into teachers&rsquo; accounts. He said the provincial standard of one teacher per 40 students must be enforced.

The chief minister further ordered strict enforcement of passenger limits and fare lists in public transport across the province, warning that licences of operators found violating rules would be cancelled.

Afridi also instructed health authorities to ensure doctors&rsquo; attendance in hospitals and take prompt action on public complaints, directing the relevant officials to conduct surprise inspections where necessary.

Read More: PTI rules out talks &#39;from position of weakness&#39;

The chief minister announced the restoration of the former FATA Games, saying the initiative would provide sports opportunities for tribal youth. He also directed officials to address complaints related to link-road rehabilitation, water supply and other basic services in Bajaur.

&ldquo;Just as Imran Khan feels the pain of the nation, in the same way your chief minister is also with you,&rdquo; Afridi said.]]>
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			<title>Bakers announce protest</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2588162/bakers-announce-protest</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2588162/bakers-announce-protest#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 26 20:41:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Decision was taken during an emergency meeting of K-P Nanbai Association's Peshawar district chapter]]>
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				<![CDATA[Bakers in Peshawar have announced a protest against restrictions imposed on the transportation of flour from Punjab, warning that the ban has pushed flour prices higher while bread continues to be sold at old, government-fixed rates.

The decision was taken during an emergency meeting of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Nanbai Association&#39;s Peshawar district chapter, which strongly condemned the Punjab government&#39;s move to halt flour supplies to the province.]]>
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			<title>Polio drive misses target for 935,000 children in merged districts</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2585095/polio-drive-misses-target-for-935000-children-in-merged-districts</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2585095/polio-drive-misses-target-for-935000-children-in-merged-districts#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 26 08:21:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Abuzar Afridi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2585095</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Security concerns, population displacement hinder vaccination campaign in 2025]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The polio vaccination drive in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa&rsquo;s merged districts was hampered by a worsening security situation, resulting in population displacement that left the majority of over 935,000 children under the age of five&mdash;targeted for immunisation in 2025&mdash;unvaccinated, a local government official said on Friday.

The official, who spoke to The Express Tribune on condition of anonymity, said that a jirga was held on December 24 at the Deputy Commissioner&rsquo;s office, which had set January 5 as the official deadline for evacuation from Khyber&rsquo;s Tirah area. However, residents had begun leaving earlier due to worsening conditions.

He added that people displaced from South Waziristan moved to Bannu, while those from North Waziristan relocated to Dera Ismail Khan.

The official said that in Bajaur, evacuations took place at the local level; however, many people moved from surrounding areas to Bajaur city and still chose not to return to their native areas.

Explaining the challenges in tracing unvaccinated children, the official said that a 31-point agenda was presented and agreed upon during the jirga. He added that the local government had promised displaced families a monthly compensation of Rs50,000, an unprecedented move.

Previously, he said, displaced families were accommodated in camps set up in major provincial districts. This time, however, cash assistance prompted many to relocate to other areas. As a result, tracking children who missed vaccinations has become increasingly difficult.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 19 polio cases were reported among children in K-P in 2025. These included four cases each in North Waziristan, Lakki Marwat and Tank; one each in Dera Ismail Khan and Lower Kohistan; two in Torghar; and three in Bannu.

A health department official, who asked not to be named, said that staffing and operational levels for WHO and UNICEF programmes in the merged districts were reduced last year, while WHO funding was also curtailed, affecting the coverage of vaccination campaigns.

Read: Pakistan built a world-class Polio system. Then 40,000 Karachi families said no

In Sindh, officials said more than 12,000 children under five were recorded as missed during the final polio campaign of 2025 in Hyderabad and adjoining areas. Most refusals were reported in Cantonment localities and municipal towns including Hussainabad, Preetabad, Qasimabad and Tando Jam, with absent households and parental refusals cited as key reasons.

According to campaign data, the final nationwide anti-polio drive of 2025 vaccinated more than 44.6 million children across Pakistan. Punjab reported 22.9 million children vaccinated, followed by Sindh with 10.6 million, K-P with 7.15 million and Balochistan with 2.58 million.

Officials said coverage in Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir also contributed to the national tally. They added that challenges in the merged districts reflected localised disruptions within specific high-risk areas.]]>
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