A targeted military operation against terrorists has commenced in the Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, aiming to eliminate militant threats and restore stability in the region. The operation officially began on August 11, and strict security measures have been implemented, including curfews and movement restrictions in various areas to ensure the success and safety of the mission.
As part of the operation, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Home Department has issued notifications enforcing Section 144, which prohibits public gatherings and movement during designated hours.
On August 11, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., the restrictions will apply to specific roads and localities such as Kharmonda Road, Khar Nawagai Road, Khar Pasht Salarzai Road, and Khar Sadiqabad Inayat Khel Road. These measures are aimed at minimizing civilian presence in targeted areas while security forces conduct their operations.
Furthermore, a complete curfew will be enforced for 72 hours, starting from 11 a.m. on August 11 until 11 a.m. on August 14. This curfew affects numerous villages and localities, including Laghari, Gwati, Ghanam Shah, Bad Siah, Kamar, Amanata, Zagai, Gat, Gundai, Garigal, Nai Khel, Regi, Dag, Dama Dula, Sultan Beg, Chotra, Shin Kot, Gang, Jwar, Inaam Khor, Changi, Anga, Safri, Bar Gatkai, Khidki, Shakro, and Bagro.
During this period, residents are strictly prohibited from leaving their homes or venturing onto the streets. The administration has warned that violators will face consequences for breaching the curfew.
In preparation for the operation, many families have voluntarily evacuated the affected areas, while others have been relocated to government-managed camps to ensure their safety. The district administration has designated 107 educational institutions, primarily located in the Khar tehsil, as temporary shelters for displaced individuals. These shelters are equipped with essential facilities such as food, shelter, and medical assistance to support the displaced population during the operation.
Mubarak Khan Zeb, the special adviser to the prime minister on tribal areas, has stated that he remains in continuous contact with the district administration and the Deputy Commissioner of Bajaur throughout the operation. He assured that affected families are not being neglected and have been promptly provided with basic amenities in designated shelter areas, many of which are schools.
The military action follows unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with local militants. Talks facilitated by the Bajaur Peace Jirga, aiming to persuade militants to return to Afghanistan, ended without resolution during a final meeting on the preceding Friday. With diplomatic efforts failing, the operation was launched to address the security concerns and eliminate terrorist threats within Bajaur.
The stringent restrictions and careful planning reflect the administration’s commitment to minimizing civilian casualties and maintaining order while pursuing counterterrorism objectives. Residents have been urged to complete all essential tasks before the curfew hours and to comply fully with security directives to ensure their safety during this critical period.
