Voluntary surrender of arms continues in Kurram

PARACHINAR: The process of voluntarily surrendering heavy weapons by tribal groups is ongoing as part of a peace agreement in Kurram district amid closure of key roads, including the vital Thall-Parachinar route.

For the past four days, residents from various areas of lower, central, and upper parts of Kurram have been handing over heavy weapons to the authorities as part of the implementation of a 14-point peace agreement signed in Kohat.

Assistant Commissioner of Parachinar Khalid Imran said that nearly 1,000 bunkers built by both sides have already been demolished under the agreement. “The disarmament phase is now underway and is expected to continue for several more days,” he added.

In efforts to restore normalcy and build public trust, the administration is also organizing friendly sports matches between local youth in different areas. “Various steps are being taken to provide relief to the public and foster a peaceful environment,” said Khalid Imran.

However, despite these positive developments, the continued closure of major roads, including the main Parachinar road, for the last seven and a half months remains a major concern. Local residents and social leaders said the road blockade has paralysed commercial activities and exacerbated the suffering of ordinary people.

Grand Tribal Alliance chairman and prominent social activist, Malik Syed Asghar, questioned the prolonged road closures, stating, “Even after the demolition of bunkers and surrender of weapons, the continued blockade of roads is beyond comprehension.” He urged the government to immediately reopen and secure all transport routes to restore normalcy in the region.