LOWER DIR: The elders and residents of different villages demonstrated here on Tuesday against the district administration’s plan to open bids for sale of sand and gravel on the bed of Panjkora River before conducting demarcation of the riverbed and their lands.

The residents of Baron, Munjai, Danwa, Rabat, Hajiabad, Kadh and Kotkay villages first demonstrated in front of the deputy commissioner’s office and later outside the Timergara Press Club.

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf-Parliamentarians’ candidate for PK-15 Brig retired Saeedullah and others led the protesters.

The protesters said they owned the land on both sides of the river and would not allow the administration to ‘seize’ it.

The speakers regretted that additional deputy commissioner (finance) Jan Mohammad had refused to meet them on the matter. The elders vowed to resist if the administration sold sand and gravel on the riverbed.

They said the government should first complete a survey initiated by the National Engineering Services Pakistan (Nespak) for demarcation of the riverbed. They warned the contractors not to take part in the bidding process.

Separately, the residents of Samarbagh on Tuesday demanded of the district administration to repair the dilapidated Munda-Samarbagh Road.

Talking to reporters, they complained there had been no repair work on the road for last 10 years, troubling motorists.

Meanwhile, the district administration in collaboration with the youth affairs, sports and education departments arranged a function in connection with International Anti-Corruption Day here on Tuesday.

Additional deputy commissioner Abdul Wali Khan was the chief guest.

District youth officer Shahzad Tariq, sports officer Ibrar Ahmad, officer livestock Dr Akbar Ali, volunteers, teachers, students and media personnel attended the function.

Mr Wali directed the heads of departments to pinpoint the elements involved in corruption. He said all segments of society should play an active role in ending corruption.

The students highlighted corruption and its effects on economy in their speeches. They were awarded with shields and certificates.

Later, the participants held a walk against corruption, carrying banners and placards inscribed with slogans against the menace.

Published in Dawn, December 13th, 2023