Rs2b earmarked for Bajaur rehabilitation

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah on Thursday announced that the provincial government has approved Rs2 billion for the rehabilitation of people affected by the ongoing operation in Bajaur.

Speaking to the media at the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony at the Civil Secretariat, Shahab said that the operation in Bajaur is an intelligence-based, targeted campaign, not a large-scale military offensive, aimed at clearing the area of terrorist elements and restoring peace.

He stated that security forces are clearing houses along roads in the affected areas and that displaced residents will be able to return soon. "Wherever government action is taken against terrorists, some local people have to temporarily relocate for their own safety," he said, adding that the government is taking all possible measures to ensure their protection and provide assistance.

The Chief Secretary said the provincial cabinet has already sanctioned Rs2 billion to facilitate the immediate rehabilitation of the affectees so that their hardships are eased and normal life can resume quickly.

Responding to a question, Shahab said a meeting was held with the local Jirga and administration to discuss ways to restore normalcy. "The terrorists who have come to the merged districts are here for a senseless war. Wherever they operate, trade, education, and all normal activities come to a halt. Their job is to attack, and the job of the police and security forces is to protect," he remarked.

He noted that the current situation in the merged districts is largely the result of spillover effects from a neighboring country, but stressed that the provincial government and security agencies are determined, through mutual cooperation, to establish lasting peace.