Relief Convoy Reaches Kurram After 94 Days of Road Closure
A convoy of 40 trucks carrying essential relief supplies arrived in Kurram district on Wednesday, marking a significant step toward alleviating the hardships caused by months of unrest.
Dispatched by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, the convoy delivered food, medicines, and other necessities. It was split into two parts: 10 trucks reached Bagan, while 30 trucks arrived in Parachinar. The relief operation followed the reopening of key roads that had been blocked for 94 days due to violent clashes.
Deputy Commissioner Kurram Ashfaq Khan, speaking to the media, described the development as a major stride toward restoring peace and normalcy in the region.
Security Measures and Relief Operations
The convoy operated under tight security, with aerial monitoring ensuring its safe passage. Earlier delays due to security concerns had led to perishable goods being returned to Peshawar.
Barrister Muhammad Saif, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Information Advisor, confirmed the relief operation was made possible after successful negotiations with local protestors. He credited the Grand Jirga, Kurram Peace Committee, and other local groups for their role in facilitating aid efforts. Saif also announced plans for additional convoys to ensure a consistent supply of essential commodities.
Impact of Extended Unrest
The prolonged road closures had caused severe shortages of food, medicines, and basic supplies in Kurram. The situation worsened following a series of violent incidents, including a tragic attack on a passenger bus in November that left 50 people dead. The unrest also saw Bagan Bazaar set ablaze and roads to Parachinar completely cut off.
Protests led by Shia scholars in Parachinar and Karachi had urged the government to take immediate action to restore access.
In response to the January 4 attack on former Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mehsud and other officials, the district administration registered cases against five suspects, with three already arrested.
While a peace agreement was brokered on January 1 by tribal elders and government representatives, logistical and security challenges delayed the delivery of relief supplies. Additional convoys are expected to follow to support the district’s recovery efforts.
