LOWER DIR: The timber association has demanded of the prime minister to take notice of financial irregularities in the affairs of the local timber market.

Addressing a news conference at the Chakdara Press Club, president of the association Mohammad Yar Khan, general secretary Mohammad Naeem and leader Humayun Khan alleged that the management of Chakdara timber market was involved in corrupt practices during timber bidding.

They insisted that the lots were allotted to the market’s employees.

The association leaders said the management’s unfair conduct had forced them into boycotting the recent timber bidding and recording their protest about it. They alleged that the government functionaries were also involved in the malpractice.

The association leaders demanded of the prime minister of taking notice of the matter and order the formation of a high-level inquiry commission for it.

COMPENSATION: Contractors of Timergara General Bus Stand have demanded of the government to compensate them for losses they suffered due to lockdown and transport restrictions.

Talking to reporters in Timergara here on Monday, contractor Ali Rehman and manager Umar Badshah said they had paid Rs136 million to the government in July last year while paying Rs392,000 taxes to the Timergara Municipal Administration.

They said the lockdown and transport ban from May 8 to May 16 would cause them a huge business loss.

Published in Dawn, May 11th, 2021