DI KHAN:
Educational institutions in Kurram tribal district have announced their closure starting Friday (today) in protest against the government’s “misleading” claims about the availability of essential goods.
Terming the situation dire, Marjan Ali, head of an educational institute, accused the government of worsening the hardships of residents instead of safeguarding their lives and property. “The government seems intent on depriving people of food and medical care,” she stated during a press conference alongside Zahid Hussain and other education heads. They criticized the government for failing to ensure safety and provide necessities like food, medicine, and fuel, which have run out across the district.
Social activist Mir Afzal Khan, joined by members of the Pak Youth Movement, condemned provincial ministers Hisham Khan and Barrister Saif for issuing false statements about child deaths and road closures. He highlighted the severe lack of medicines in hospitals and medical stores, resulting in child fatalities. Khan warned of protests, including sit-ins, if immediate action is not taken to address the crisis.
Since November 21, the district has been paralyzed by road closures and the sealed Pak-Afghan border, following an attack on a convoy and tribal clashes. The region faces severe shortages of food, fuel, and daily essentials, leaving Parachinar and surrounding areas in a state of emergency.
Gas supplies have also run out, compounding the suffering amid harsh winter conditions. Dr. Mir Hassan Jan, medical superintendent of the local hospital, confirmed the deaths of 54 individuals, including 29 children, due to the unavailability of medical treatment. Shops, hotels, restaurants, and bakeries in Parachinar remain shut, leaving citizens in desperate need.
National Assembly member Hamid Hussain expressed alarm over the rising fatalities and criticized the inaction of responsible authorities. He questioned the continued closure of roads for 70 days and the lack of response to ongoing killings on the main route. Hussain warned of launching a protest movement if immediate steps are not taken to reopen and secure the roads.
Efforts for peace through a grand jirga have stalled, despite agreement on most points, according to insiders.
