PESHAWAR: Army chief General Raheel Sharif has said that Zarb-i-Azb military operation is progressing successfully and while focusing on early completion of the operation, the army will continue its rehabilitation and reconstruction activities.

In this regard, he said, a comprehensive plan had been prepared in consultation with the government. The army chief was speaking at a ceremony held on Sunday for inauguration of a 76km road, section of the upcoming Central Trade Corridor (CTC), and the largest bridge in South Waziristan.

A press release issued by the Inter Services Public Relations said the CTC was a strategic link for developing trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. It will help revive the economy of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Khyber Pakhtukhwa.

A 705km road network of international standard running through southern districts of KP and Fata, the CTC is being built by army engineers. The project has been funded by friendly countries.

The 76km Shakai-Makeen road, funded by the USAID, connects two main sections of the trade corridor, one between Bannu-Miramshah and Ghulam Khan and the other linking Wana with Angor Adda.

Apart from their economic, security and strategic advantages, the new roads have considerably reduced travelling time between different areas.

Gen Raheel Sharif said development of Fata was a task undertaken by the army on a priority basis. The army has so far undertaken 178 projects in social, communication, infrastructure and power sectors in Fata and Malakand. The projects will improve the quality of life in tribal areas and address the problem of militancy on long-term basis.

Addressing tribal elders, he praised their support in combating terrorists and the sacrifices rendered by tribal people. He reiterated the army’s resolve to restore peace and stability in affected areas.

On his arrival in South Waziristan, the army chief was received by Corps Commander Lt Gen Hidayatur Rehman and tribal elders.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2014