Jirga wants Af-Pak trade routes in Bajaur reopened

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): An Awami National Party-sponsored jirga has called for the immediate reopening of trade routes with Afghanistan in Bajaur district.

A large number of tribal elders, religious scholars, political figures, business leaders and social activists attended the jirga in Nawagai Bazaar on Wednesday.

Speakers underlined the imperative of reopening of the routes for the socio-economic development of Bajaur tribal districts and adjoining areas.

Bajaur has three trade routes with Afghanistan — Nawa Pass, Ghakhi Pass and Latai Pass. But they have been shut since 2007 for security reasons.

The closure was taking a heavy toll on the local economy in addition to hindering movement between the two countries, the speakers complained.

They urged the governments of both countries to reopen the three routes as soon as possible to address the problems of locals.

The jirga participants voiced grave concern over the increasing incidents of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and emphasised on the restoration of peace in the province.

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