Abbottabad DC pilloried in open kutchery

Directs officials to visit places from where problems have been reported

ABBOTTABAD: A town hall held by the Abbottabad Deputy Commissioner Amir Afaq turned into a complaints forum on Thursday as residents started listing a litany of issues they were facing in the district from the poor amenities, poor health, and road facilities, illegal logging,

With the district heads of the Forest, Communication, and Works, Wild Life, Health, Education, Galiyat Development Authority (GDA), Agriculture, Revenue and police departments present, the public expressed their displeasure over the alleged poor performance of these government departments.

People complained about the poor state of roads and the illegal logging in Bandi Chambiali, a village located adjacent to the picturesque hill station of Thandiyani.

Further, people complained about the shortage of health staff at the local basic health unit (BHU). Further, he pointed to a lack of attention paid by teachers in the schools as reflected in the poor results of schools.

Residents further complained that the Wildlife Department had failed to control animal attacks on livestock. Further, it was said that aerial firings in marriage ceremonies are going unchecked which had cost at least three to four lives in recent days.

They added that a single lineman has been deputed by the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in the entire area. Hence when any fault is reported, it takes a long time to clear it. Moreover, residents said that they face great difficulty in obtaining clean drinking water due to defective and substandard water supply schemes.

Traders call strike

All Traders Federation of Abbottabad (ATFA) and All Traders Association Havelian (ATAH) will observe complete shutter down today to show resentment over the new taxes imposed by the government said ATFA President Naeem Awan after meeting of the association largely attended by member organisations.

ATAH President Khursheed Azam said the members of his association have endorsed the decision of all Pakistan traders’ body to observe the complete strike on July 13. In the meantime, Naanbai Association has also decided to hold the protest rally and complete a strike on the increase in the rates of flour and piped gas. They are demanding an increase in the price of roti. 

Published in The Express Tribune, July 13^th, 2019.