Closure leaves commuters, transporters stranded, affects those traveling during Ramazan
The Dera Darya Khan bridge connecting Punjab with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains closed after a suicide attack at the nearby Dajal check post on Tuesday caused severe disruption to traffic and transportation of essential goods PHOTO: EXPRESS
DERA ISMAIL KHAN:
The Dera Darya Khan Bridge connecting Punjab with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa remained closed on Wednesday following a suicide attack at the nearby inter-provincial check post in the Dajal area of Punjab’s Bhakkar a day earlier, causing severe disruption to traffic and transportation of essential goods.
At 18:45 yesterday, a suicide bomber detonated explosives near a check post just off the Dera Darya Khan bridge, which connects Dera Ismail Khan with Punjab, killing two police officers and leaving several injured.
The Dera Darya Khan bridge connecting Punjab with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa remains closed after a suicide attack at the nearby Dajal check post on Tuesday caused severe disruption to traffic and the transportation of essential goods PHOTO: EXPRESS
In response, security was increased in DI Khan and Bhakkar districts. The Punjab Police closed the Dera Darya Khan Bridge to traffic and launched a search operation in the area.
“The road has been blocked since last night and we have been stuck here since then,” said an oil tanker driver traveling from Dera Ismail Khan to Mahmood Kot in Muzaffargarh.
“If the road remains closed, fuel shortages may occur at the pumps. Wheat and other supplies from Punjab may also be delayed, affecting the markets in Dera Ismail Khan.”
Another driver, Umar, transporting vegetables from Multan, reported similar difficulties. “We have been stranded since last night. The police told us that a search is underway and the road will only reopen once it is cleared,” he said.
Read: 3 Federal Constabulary personnel martyred in terror attack in KP’s Karak District: Police
Milkmen also expressed frustration. “After inspections we are allowed to pass but the delays are significant,” said one.
The Punjab Police issued a warning urging travelers to avoid non-essential trips. “If it is necessary to travel, please carry full identification and vehicle documents. Cooperate fully with the police and administration and avoid unnecessary arguments,” the notice said.
The closure has left commuters and transporters stranded, particularly affecting those traveling for work, deliveries and essential services during Ramazan. Authorities said they are working to safely reopen the bridge once the area is fully secured.
