Fragile Kurram

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa apex committee has decided to dismantle all private bunkers in Kurram in a bid to restore peace in the district which has long suffered from sectarian clashes. In the most recent round, many were killed with scores wounded and even more displaced. The clashes started in the wake of an attack on a convoy that claimed at least 43 lives. Since then, the main road between the border district, surrounded on almost three sides by Afghanistan, and Peshawar has been cut off. Residents have reported food and medicine shortages in parts of the Kurram district as the government struggles to end a reignited feud between tribes. As a jirga continued making efforts for long-term peace in the district, the apex committee meeting, chaired by the chief minister, decided to "dismantle all bunkers in Kurram and remove heavy weapons". The conflict highlights the fragile state of security and governance in the area. The humanitarian crisis is compounded by the longstanding tribal feuds that have simmered for decades, fueled by territorial disputes and ethnic tensions.

The decision to dismantle bunkers and remove heavy weaponry is an attempt to de-escalate the immediate threat of violence and create a foundation for longer-term peace. However, this action alone will not resolve the issues that have led to the current situation. Yet, lasting peace in Kurram will require more than just disarmament and temporary ceasefires. The government must address the underlying causes of the conflict, particularly the land disputes and ethnic divisions that have festered over decades. This will involve a comprehensive approach that includes equitable distribution of resources, better governance and initiatives to foster inter-tribal cooperation. The path to peace in Kurram is challenging, but the decision to reduce weaponry of both sides marks a positive shift towards de-escalation.