Season’s greetings: Governor says the worst is almost over

Swat summer festival begins, dances, plays presented on first day.

“That day is not far when terrorism will be wiped out from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata),” said Governor Engineer Shaukatullah Khan at the inauguration ceremony of the Swat Summer Festival.

Khan was invited as the chief guest to the event held at Shahi Ground in Kalam, Swat district on Thursday, according to a government press release.



Other than a large number of tourists, senior civil and military officials also witnessed the opening of the mega event. The governor appreciated the people of Swat for their exemplary courage during the past few years when they were displaced from their homes. He also praised the efforts of civilian and military officials who worked tirelessly for the quick repatriation of internally displaced persons.

“Difficult times are almost over and now, we are not only engaged in rehabilitation and reconstruction of the district but also in planning new infrastructure facilities,” said Governor Khan.

He emphasised on preserving natural resources in the region for which locals have to play an effective role.

Earlier, Major General Sanaullah, General Officer Commander (GOC) 17- Division, highlighted the aims and objectives of holding the event. Plays, tableaus and dances were presented by students on the first day.

The summer festival will conclude on June 23.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 21^st, 2013.