N Waziristan trade route reopening

The Ghulam Khan border check post in the North Waziristan Agency is set to be reopened after several years of closure by security agencies as part of Operation Zarb-e-Azb which was launched in 2014. Superficially, the reopening might be considered symbolic of better days to come. However, it would be naïve to assume that Pakistan is truly ready to reap any major dividends from this move owing to our inchoate security situation with aggressive responses shown only after a high-profile attack. There is an air of trepidation that comes with the news of the reopening of this border check post. It would be foolhardy to dismiss those vibes altogether.

To date, one can argue that Pakistan’s borders with Afghanistan are still poorly protected, much of it owed to geography and the mountainous terrain.

There is the argument that opening the NWA route could foment more terrorism in the country. Conversely, however, it is recognised that illegal trade may be mitigated and the checkpoint could be utilised as a way to improve security around our borders. The focus on trade may seem premature at this point. The prospect of trade should only be treated secondary to the security of citizens. Trade numbers matter little when human lives are left unprotected.

Still the timing of the check post’s reopening is important: our exports to Afghanistan are gradually decreasing and our traders are feeling the impact. There is an urgent need to regain the momentum despite last week’s three major explosions in different parts of the country.

The protests in Parachinar in the aftermath of the terror attack have underscored the little faith that people have in the political government. It was only upon the timely visit and intervention of the army chief did the mourners there agree to end their protest.

Our security apparatus requires long-term planning, not impulsive planning following major attacks. Although the frequency of attacks might be reduced, anti-state elements continue to infiltrate the country. We are still at a point where borders require constant vigil. The government must provide assurance that citizens will not face unnecessary risk.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 3^rd, 2017.

Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.