BANNU: Authorities here have announced reopening of trade and commercial market in Janikhel area after nine years.

The decision was taken during a jirga which was attended by officials of the district administration, security forces and elders of Janikhel tribe here on Thursday.

Assistant commissioner Ashfaq Khan told mediapersons after talks that the commercial hub would be reopened very soon.

He said that the Pakistan Army had already announced rehabilitation of drinking water schemes and other infrastructure in the area.

The official said that security forces had announced relaxation in checking at the checkposts to ease the movement of people.

He said that the market was demolished in a military operation to eliminate miscreants from the area in 2009.

He said that peace had been restored in Janikhel area and commercial activities would be resumed area soon.

The tribal elders assured support to the military and civil administration for maintenance of peace in the area. They said that people would support efforts of the security forces.

Published in Dawn, August 31st, 2018