KHAR: A jirga of the Salarzai elders on Friday settled an 80-year-old tribal dispute.

The feud over the ownership of a mountain between the Letai and Saroo Wano tribes was one of the longest running disputes in the region that had left several people dead from both sides.

The settlement came at a ceremony held in Pashat area, the main town of Salarzai tehsil, where local elders, religious leaders and members of rival tribes were in attendance.

Senior officials of the local administration and security forces, including Bajaur Agency Political Agent Abdul Amir Khattak and Commandant Bajaur Scouts Col Niar Zaman were also present.

The participants said the jirga had been active for quite some time to resolve the dispute with peaceful means and for that purpose they had held a number of meetings with the warring tribes.

On the occasion, elders of the rival tribes hugged each other and pledged to live peacefully in future.

Speaking on the occasion, Amir Khattak said settlement of the longstanding dispute was good news for the area because disputes and conflicts not only disturbed peace but also hampered development.

He paid homage to the elders of Salarzai tribe for their efforts regarding settlement of the dispute. Commandant Bajaur Scouts Col Niar Zaman appreciated the elders for settling the dispute. He also urged the Salarzai tribe to play their due role in keeping peace in the region.

Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2016