Parachinar: An aid convoy traveling to Kurram came under fire near the Ochit area on Monday, injuring a truck driver, police reported.
The convoy, consisting of 64 vehicles, was en route from Thall to Kurram when unidentified attackers opened fire. Following the attack, authorities decided to turn the convoy back to Hangu as a precautionary measure.
Security has been tightened in the region, and officials have launched an investigation to prevent further incidents.
Ongoing Violence and Government Efforts in Kurram
Kurram has long been affected by violence, with over 150 people killed since November 2023. Last year, two separate convoys were ambushed under police escort, leaving 40 dead.
The prolonged unrest led to road closures, cutting off Kurram from the rest of the country. This caused severe shortages of food and medicine, resulting in additional deaths.
A government and military-brokered peace agreement was reached, requiring all factions to surrender weapons and remove bunkers. However, attacks have continued, including targeted attempts on Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mehsud and Assistant Commissioner Saeed Manan Boshehra.
Last month, militants ambushed a convoy carrying essential supplies, killing at least 8 people, including security personnel, drivers, and civilians. In retaliation, security forces eliminated six attackers.
Security Measures by KP Government
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced the establishment of 120 security posts along Kurram Road, with an allocated budget of Rs 764 million. Additionally, 407 personnel will be recruited to enhance security.
So far, nine convoys with 718 vehicles have been dispatched to provide essential supplies. A helicopter service has conducted 153 flights, transporting 4,000 people and delivering 19,000 kilograms of medicines.
Under the peace accord, authorities are dismantling bunkers in Kurram. A total of 151 bunkers have been removed, with a deadline set for March to complete the operation.
Demands of Kurram Traders
For the past several months, over 100 villages in Parachinar, Boshehra, and surrounding areas have been under siege, cutting residents off from food and medical supplies.
Locals have expressed frustration over shortages of fuel, gas, and medicine despite peace restoration efforts.
Traders staged a protest demanding compensation for losses incurred during the violence in the Bagan area of Lower Kurram. Protesters warned that if compensation was not provided, they would block the Thall-Parachinar road.
Meanwhile, due to road closures, petrol prices in the black market have surged to Rs 1,200-1,500 per liter, forcing many residents to travel on foot.
