The military operation is expected to last approximately two months, after which families will begin to return in stages.
KHYBER:
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, which resulted in complete consensus on the temporary relocation of residents from the Maydan area to the picturesque Tirah Valley.
Speaking to The Express PAkGazette, Kamaluddin, the jirga chief, confirmed that a formal written agreement has been signed with the Khyber deputy commissioner. “The evacuation of the Maydan area in Tirah will begin on January 10 and is expected to conclude on January 25,” he said.
He added that the military operation is expected to last approximately two months, after which the families will begin their phased return starting April 5.
The agreement also includes compensation for affected families. Homes that are completely destroyed will receive Rs 3 million, while partially damaged homes will be compensated with Rs 1 million. Each affected family will also receive immediate cash assistance of Rs 250,000, along with monthly support of Rs 50,000 during temporary relocation. Relief funds will be disbursed through EasyPaisa accounts and free transportation will be provided to relocated families.
Kamaluddin noted that six Afridi subtribes inhabit the Maydan area, with an estimated combined population of 130,000. He highlighted that law and order in the region has been unstable for the past four years, highlighting the need for the next operation.
