The cycle race event is under way in Mohmand Agency. PHOTO: EXPRESS
The ‘Second Governor Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Tour of Mohmand National Cycle Race’ was a one and a half hour long event which was a milestone in the history of Mohmand Agency and Federally Administered Tribal Areas since it served as welcome proof that peace was being restored to the militancy-hit region.
Mohmand Agency Political Agent Mehmood Aslam Wazir who was the chief guest at the event, lauded the role of the security forces and tribespeople in maintaining stability in the area.
He said the race was held at a historic place and marked the onset of development in the area. He also praised the hospitality tribespeople showed to all national level cyclists.
Wazir distributed cash prizes among participants. Wapda cyclist Muhammad Sabir stood first and won Rs100,000 while SNGPL cyclist Muhammad Awais stood second and won Rs60,000. Balochistan’s Zameer Ahmad stood third and was awarded a prize of Rs40,000.
Brisk arrangements
Tribal elders, youth and students were ecstatic at a sports activity being held in the region that was considered inaccessible after operations against militants took place.
They showered flower petals at participants who were en route to their race and also served cold beverages to them.
For the first time the government had deployed khasadar officials in the region at the request of tribespeople.
The area was inaccessible until 2001 when the government took control and started development work there.
On the occasion of the race, strict security measures were enforced to prevent any unforeseen activity.
Officials of law-enforcement agencies and other high ranking civilian officials were also present at the occasion.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 5th, 2016.
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