LOWER DIR: Security forces have imposed a night curfew in four villages of Bishgram union council in Maidan tehsil following reports of alleged presence and movement of militants in the area.

Announcements were made through mosques in the affected villages on Wednesday, informing residents that a complete curfew would remain in force from 9pm to 7am.

The villages affected by the curfew are Ashrogi, Khazana, Kolal Dheri and Awarai. Residents were asked to cooperate with security forces and remain indoors during the curfew hours.

The move comes amid reports of suspected militant activity in parts of Maidan, though the information could not be verified independently.

Meanwhile, taking notice of public complaints and media reports, the Lower Dir deputy commissioner on Wednesday directed the social welfare department to make the long-dysfunctional welfare home in Chakdara fully operational within a month.

During an inspection, it emerged that the welfare home had been completed nearly six years ago but had remained non-functional ever since.

Taking serious notice of the delay, the deputy commissioner ordered that repair and rehabilitation work be launched immediately and that the facility be made operational within the stipulated timeframe.

The district social welfare officer was directed to ensure the appointment of the required teachers and take all necessary measures to ensure the effective functioning of the facility.

The assistant commissioner of Adenzai was tasked with personally supervising the repair and rehabilitation work and keeping the deputy commissioner regularly updated on its progress.

Published in Dawn, August 20th, 2026