PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan on Thursday announced a Rs2 billion special development package for Janikhel area in Bannu district and Rs2 billion funds for the construction of Shakto Dam.

He made the announcement during a meeting with a 40-member delegation of Janikhel tribesmen, who called on him at the Chief Minister’s House here.

Janikhel tribesmen have staged two sit-ins against killings in their area during the last few months.

According to a statement issued here, the visitors apprised the chief minister of all issues of their area.

Mr Mahmood assured them of the resolution of their all problems on priority basis and said the government would maintain law and order and ensure rapid development in the area.

He announced the recruitment of five platoons for the Frontier Constabulary from the area to provide employment to Janikhel youths.

The chief minister said the government would bear all expenses for the purpose.

He directed the relevant authorities to produce a summary in this respect for approval.

Mr Mahmood also announced the construction of a police station in Janikhel area and said schemes of healthcare, education, road and other sectors would be launched in the area on a priority basis.

He said the government was taking serious steps to maintain law and order in the area and urged the local elders to play due role in that respect.

The chief minister said some elements tried to incite the people of Janikhel against the government for political purposes but the people didn’t listen to them and thus, thwarting their bid.

He said the government later made an agreement with the people of Janikhel area.

Mr Mahmood said he was fully aware of the problems of Janikhel tribesmen and would resolve them.

He thanked the elders of Janikhel for holding the successful jirga and appreciated the efforts of the administration in that respect.

The tribal elders praised the chief minister for listening to them about their concerns and assured them of the government’s cooperation for ensuring peace and development in the area.

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2021