BAJAUR/SOUTH WAZIRISTAN/BANNU: The district administrations of Bajaur, South Waziristan and Bannu on Tuesday imposed a 30-day ban on trade, storage and transportation of fertiliser for security reasons.

The district administrations have invoked Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure, citing concerns as fertiliser is widely used by militants in making crude improvised explosive devices.

A notification, issued by Bajaur Deputy Commissioner Adnan Farid, said that the restriction was imposed on directives of home and tribal affairs department to strengthen safety of people and maintain law and order in the district.

“Credible security concerns exist that fertiliser may be diverted and misused in preparation of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other unlawful activities. Its unrestricted sale, purchase, transportation and possession may create circumstances prejudicial to public safety, security and maintenance of public order, necessitating immediate regulation in the larger public interest,” it said.

DCs of Bajaur, Upper and Lower South Waziristan and Bannu cite security concerns for the restriction

The notification stated that sale, purchase and transportation of all types of explosives were also banned in the district with immediate effect. It warned that any person contravening the order would be liable to prosecution under Section 188 of Pakistan Penal Code, 1860, in addition to any other applicable provision of law.

The district administrations of Lower South Waziristan and Upper South Waziristan have also imposed a ban on sale, purchase, transportation and storage of urea fertiliser, citing public safety and law and order concerns.

The deputy commissioners of both districts issued separate notifications on Monday, directing relevant authorities to ensure strict enforcement of the orders.

According to the order, the restriction came into effect on July 27 and will remain in force until August 25, 2026, unless modified, extended or withdrawn earlier by the competent authority.

The district administration of Bannu also banned sale, purchase and transportation of urea fertiliser for one month due to security concerns.

The district administration has directed all fertiliser dealers to maintain proper records and refrain from sale, purchase, and transportation of urea during the period of the ban.

Authorities have warned that any dealer or individual found violating the order will face strict legal action under relevant provisions of Pakistan Penal Code and other applicable laws.

The notification stated that, depending on the prevailing security situation, the order might be extended, amended, or withdrawn before the expiry of its one-month period.

Published in Dawn, July 29th, 2026