Kurram's plight

The remote district of Kurram, surrounded by Afghan territory on almost three sides, is cut off from the rest of Pakistan and faces a mounting humanitarian crisis. Due to prevailing tensions, the only road to the region is cut off, and the district faces a harsh winter with not even the bare minimum of supplies reaching the area. Essential goods such as food and medicine have already run out or are running low, and urgent action is needed to avert a full-scale disaster and address the plight of thousands of civilians. Ethnic and sectarian tensions have long marked the region and it has suffered from years of instability and violence. With the only road blocked, security threats have made it almost impossible for relief convoys to reach the area, leading to severe shortages of necessities. The healthcare facilities in Kurram are also facing a critical lack of resources, unable to cater to the growing number of patients suffering from preventable diseases, malnutrition and injuries.

It would be a grave error for the state to continue overlooking the violence in Kurram. If left unchecked, instability could quickly spread to neighbouring districts, and vested interests may exploit the region's sectarian divisions to incite communal unrest throughout Pakistan. Kurram is especially sensitive due to its sectarian dynamics, its proximity to Afghanistan and the presence of militant groups and heavy weaponry. Despite this, the state has struggled to disarm the region and effectively address the tribal disputes that often escalate into communal violence. Efforts to restore supply and ensure the security of aid convoys are essential steps to alleviate the suffering of the people of Kurram. Humanitarian aid should be prioritised, and efforts to restore connectivity and security in the region must be ramped up. Efforts should also be made to bring the local tribes to the negotiating table and settle their differences.