The military operation is expected to last approximately two months, after which families will begin a phased return
SHELTER:
In a major development ahead of a proposed security operation, local tribesmen in Khyber’s Tirah Valley have agreed to voluntarily leave their villages.
The decision follows successful negotiations between a 24-member tribal jirga and the district administration, resulting in full consensus on the temporary relocation of residents from Maydan area in the scenic Tirah Valley.
Speaking to The Express Pakinomist, Kamaluddin, leader of the jirga, confirmed that a formal written agreement has been signed with the Deputy Commissioner of Khyber. “The evacuation from Tirah’s Maydan area will begin on January 10 and is expected to end on January 25,” he said.
He added that the military operation is expected to last approximately two months, after which families will begin gradual returns from April 5.
The agreement also includes compensation for affected families. Homes that are completely destroyed will receive Rs3 million, while partially damaged homes will be compensated with Rs1 million. Each affected family will also receive immediate cash assistance of Rs250,000 along with a monthly allowance of Rs50,000 during temporary relocation. Relief funds will be disbursed through EasyPaisa accounts and free transport will be provided to relocating families.
Kamaluddin noted that six Afridi sub-tribes live in the Maydan area with an estimated total population of 130,000. He emphasized that law and order in the region has been unstable for the past four years, which underlines the need for the upcoming operation.
