MINGORA, Oct 3: A 12-day Swat Sports Gala organised by Pakistan Army began on Wednesday at Kabal Ground after a colourful ceremony.

Local MNA Muzaffarul Mulk was the chief guest in the event, where people from all walks of life, including elected representatives, army and government officials, showed up in large numbers.

The festival formally opened after balloons and pigeons were released in the air.

Visitors were pleased by a display of gymnastics, taekwondo and traditional Khattak dance.

Later, a football match was played between Upper and Lower Dir teams.

Operation commander of Swat Brigadier Abid and Colonel Shahid were also in attendance.

Mr Mulk appreciated the efforts made by Pakistan Army for restoring peace in the valley once ruled by Taliban militants.

He said the sports gala would prove that Swat had once again become a peaceful area.

The MNA added that the army had eliminated militants from Swat to the delight of locals.

He said the sports gala would provide a source of entertainment to the people, which previously had no such festival.

Mr Mulk said the gala would also convey a positive image of the valley known for its scenic beauty.

He said sports played a vital role in development of a healthy society.

According to organisers, football, cricket and volleyball matches are part of the gala scheduled to continue until Oct 14.

They said twenty20 cricket matches would be played between teams of different areas, while ex-cricketers Zaheer Abbas and Javed Miandad would turn up to participate in an exhibition match.