Replacing bombs with sports in terror-struck north

FATA’s spirit remains high despite attacks.

LAHORE:

The region may have been a target of terrorism but the Federally Administered Tribal Areas’ (Fata) administration is not going to sit back and do nothing.

The region, despite being deprived of sporting activities, boasts of talent in volleyball, cricket and football and is anxious to get into gear again as soon as the security situation improves. While that may take time to happen since the tribal areas have been a regular target of drone attacks, part of the war against terror and given the situation, there is little players can do. For many, moving to other parts of the country, where pursuing their sports passion is easier, becomes an easier choice.

“The youth here is passionate and wants sports activities,” Director Sports and Youth Affairs Faisal Jamil Shah told The Express Tribune. “Unfortunately the region is deprived of facilities since the only sports complex in Miran Shah is currently under the army’s control. But once the situation gets better, I’m sure the region will lift its name in quick time.”

And while there may be hope in Shah’s words, the process will be a long and enduring one.

“Rehabilitation is a long process,” added Shah. “While cricket has forced players to move to other parts, there’s still a lot of volleyball being played in various tribal areas.”

And even that sport became a target of terrorism. At least 88 people were killed when a suicide bomber targeted a stadium in Bannu during a volleyball match but Fata’s spirit was not blown away.

Despite being well aware of the dangers, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has continued work for the development of the game in Fata. Fast-bowler Abdul Haq, who hails from North Waziristan, caught the eyes of the Pakistan team management in Abu Dhabi.

His skills and potential earned him a call-up by the National Cricket Academy in Lahore and there is hope that Haq will don the national colours soon.

“We are making our best efforts to keep the game alive with the involvement of the PCB,” said a PCB official for Fata.

“Grounds in South and North Waziristan are deserted and we’re going all-out to make them functional.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 28^th, 2011.