BAJAUR: A jirga of local elders on Wednesday prevented wheat crop on hundreds of kanals of disputed land from going to waste after persuading rival groups to allow its harvest in Bajaur district’s War Mamund tehsil.

According to an official statement, the jirga, constituted on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Shahid Ali Khan, succeeded in convincing both groups in the Hazar Naw area after daylong negotiations to permit the harvest of the standing wheat crop.

The statement said the deputy commissioner had taken notice of reports that wheat crop over hundreds of kanals of disputed land was at risk of being wasted, as the groups had barred each other from harvesting it.

After obtaining the consent of both groups, the jirga, along with administration officials, visited the disputed land and convinced the rivals to allow jirga members to harvest the crop.

According to the officials, the produce will remain in the jirga’s custody until the land dispute is resolved through mutual agreement.

The statement said the initiative had not only saved the crop from being wasted but also paved the way for an early resolution of the dispute.

However, the officials warned both groups against creating obstacles to the harvesting process or interfering with the jirga’s efforts, saying strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the operation.

SECTION 144 IMPOSED: In view of the heightened risk of forest fires during the summer season, the district administration on Wednesday enforced Section 144, banning activities that could trigger blazes and endanger natural resources, public property and human lives.

According to a notification issued by the deputy commissioner, the restrictions prohibit lighting fires in or around forest areas, setting up campfires, discarding lit cigarettes or matchsticks, and burning crop residues or other agricultural waste that may cause fires.

The restriction would remain effective for three months.

The notification urged residents to cooperate with the authorities in safeguarding forests and natural resources.

Strict legal action will be taken against those violating the restrictions under the relevant laws, the notification warned.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026