Kurram, January 12, 2025: The dismantling of bunkers in the conflict-hit Kurram district began on Sunday under the directives of Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Khan. The move is part of the Kohat peace agreement, which aims to restore stability and security in the region.
Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Khan stated that all bunkers in the district would be demolished, and weapons surrendered by February 1, as per the peace agreement. In the initial phase, one village from each side will see bunkers removed, with security personnel accompanying the demolition teams to ensure safety.
Relief supplies will be dispatched once the areas receive security clearance. Meanwhile, Section 144 remains in effect across Kurram, where protests continue at three locations.
The decision to demolish the bunkers follows directives issued after a provincial apex committee meeting and agreements between the involved parties. Villages in Lower Kurram, including Kharkali and Balishkhel, are among the first targeted for bunker removal. The Deputy Commissioner has instructed executive engineers from the Communications and Works (C&W) department in Upper and Lower Kurram to be present on-site with necessary equipment and personnel.
A 14-member government team will oversee the demolition operations in each village.
Road closures in Kurram continue to disrupt aid convoys. On Friday, a second convoy carrying essential supplies for the district was delayed after a police party came under fire. Local residents staged sit-ins in Mandori, Lower Kurram, to press for their demands, leading to the closure of the Tal-Parachinar highway.
The district administration confirmed that negotiations with protest leaders were ongoing in Tal Cantt to reopen the road. Meanwhile, trucks loaded with goods remain stuck in Tal, Hangu district, awaiting clearance to proceed to Upper Kurram. The convoy was expected to resume its journey on Saturday.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has criticized the provincial government, accusing it of mismanaging security and governance. Addressing a news conference at the Karachi Press Club on Saturday, Kundi said, “K-P has fallen into the hands of incompetent and incapable leaders. This government is pushing the province toward unrest.”
The governor expressed concerns over the deteriorating security situation, noting that tourists are being advised against visiting the province, which he described as a clear sign of instability.
The demolition of bunkers and other peace-building measures are part of broader efforts to address longstanding tensions and bring normalcy to the Kurram district.
