IDPs return

This refers to the news report, ‘152 more families return to S Waziristan’ (March 18). It is good that at last some of those families who were displaced by the war on terror are able to return to their homes in the tribal areas. In the first phase, 2,500 families from Sarwaki and Sararogha tehsils of the South Waziristan Agency will be allowed to return.
This shows the government’s confidence in the success of the military operation in those areas. The peaceful repatriation of these families will be a great success of the incumbent government. It reflects the government’s commitment towards rehabilitating the IDPs. To ensure sustainable peace in these areas a long-term strategy for infrastructure and social sector development is required. Moreover, attention should be paid to extend the constitutional ambit to the tribal areas.
Aisha Hussain
Lahore
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After the successful completion of the third phase of Operation Khyber, the return of IDPs to their homes has been started. The families have started to move back to their home under strict security arrangements made by the army. Moreover, colonies have been built for rehabilitation of almost 2,500 families, and each family will be provided food items for the next six months.
The returning IDPs have also been provided with Rs35,000 to meet their immediate needs. The smooth return, rehabilitation of the IDPs is an achievement of our armed forces. This also reflects well on the unflinching commitment, sincere dedication and devoted efforts being made by the government in this decisive fight against terrorism.
Farvat Malik
Lahore