Afridi assures action on Shangla's projects

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has pledged to prioritize the completion of stalled infrastructure projects in the underdeveloped Shangla district, assuring residents of improved connectivity and healthcare facilities in the upcoming Annual Development Programme (ADP).

In a meeting held on Wednesday in Peshawar, former provincial minister and PTI central Deputy Secretary Information Shaukat Yousafzai called on Chief Minister Afridi. The two leaders discussed a range of political, regional, and developmental issues facing the province.

Yousafzai highlighted the dire condition of several incomplete schemes in Shangla originally undertaken by the Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA). He specifically drew attention to the Leiluni-Bulkani Road and the Belle Baba Pir Abad Road, which have deteriorated into ruins, severely hampering travel for a large local population. Residents are forced to take lengthy detours to reach their homes, causing significant hardship.

The former minister also raised concerns over the slow pace of construction on the Ranyal-Chichlo Road and the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Bisham, urging faster progress to benefit the area.

Responding to the briefing, Chief Minister Afridi expressed deep concern over the prolonged delays and the resulting difficulties for the people. He directed that the Leiluni-Bulkani Road and Belle Baba Pir Abad Road be included in the next ADP for early completion. He also instructed officials to allocate additional funds for the Bisham Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in the forthcoming budget and to immediately remove obstacles on the Chichlo Road to ensure its swift handover to the public.

Afridi emphasized that provincial resources belong to the people and every penny would be spent on their welfare. "If ERRA has failed to complete its projects, the public should not bear the punishment," he said, reaffirming the government's commitment to directing resources solely toward development and prosperity.

The chief minister further underscored that maintaining law and order remains the top priority, with no compromise on protecting citizens' lives and property. He highlighted ongoing efforts to promote tourism in the province's remote and scenic areas by improving infrastructure, aiming to create employment opportunities for locals alongside restoring peace and security.

Touching on Peshawar's development, Afridi said the city is being made more beautiful and secure through targeted initiatives.

Dismissing criticism from opponents, he declared: "I do not care what my detractors say; I will continue serving the people with full dedication."

He concluded by noting that God has blessed K-P with exceptional tourist attractions, and the government is working diligently to upgrade infrastructure in these areas to unlock their full potential for economic growth.