Saif expects Kurram breakthrough this week

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister's Adviser on Information and Public Relations Barrister Saif has stated that significant progress is expected this week regarding the Kurram issue. After a two-day pause, the jirga will resume and aim to establish a lasting peace agreement. He urged both parties and the people of Kurram to remain vigilant against the conspiracies of anti-peace elements.

Dr Saif appealed to the public not to pay attention to the propaganda spread by such elements on social media. He also hinted at good news soon regarding the reopening of roads.

He added that the CM's helicopter is dedicated to delivering medicines and evacuating patients from the area. "So far, over 180 people have been transported via helicopter, with priority given to women, children, patients, and individuals traveling abroad," he said.

Saif assured that more flights will continue, while the Provincial Disaster Management Authority's helpline, 1700, remains fully operational.

Regarding the provincial cabinet meeting, Dr Saif mentioned that the cabinet formally approved post-incident relief emergency measures in Kurram. He detailed that the emergency relief operations, already underway, have been given legal validation by the cabinet. The provincial government has also instructed the relevant authorities to expedite relief efforts, ensuring the provision of medicines and essential food supplies.

He clarified that some private media channels have presented the news out of context. Relief emergency operations include the delivery of medicines and food as well as air services for transportation. These relief efforts will continue until the situation in Kurram stabilises. Additionally, financial assistance will be provided to those affected by the unrest in Kurram.

The Kurram district's disconnection from Peshawar and other cities is giving rise to a humanitarian crisis, leaving as many as 50 children dead at local hospitals due to the lack of supplies.