TIMERGARA, Feb 29: To restore the declining image of Pakistan Army in public and show sympathy with the poor and vulnerable communities, army officials on Friday distributed free ration among widows, orphans and helpless people of Lower Dir.

According to sources, a ceremony in this regard was held at Lal Qilla Rest House Maidan, which was attended by a large number of local people, politicians and area notables.

About 500 families were provided with food items -- flour, pulses, and milk. Military officials termed it a gift for the people and said the move was aimed at building strong relationship with the masses.

Speaking on the occasion Col Tahir Malik said the army jawans were from the general public and were their brothers. “We are one and would remain united against our combined enemy to protect our borders from any aggression,” he said, adding that the army wanted to distribute a quantity of their ration among the poor people of the area.

Col Malik appreciated the role played by the people of Dir to secure the area during a crucial time and hoped that they would cooperate in the future as well. “Some people think about us that we are their enemy but it was wrong perception. We are your brothers,” he added.

Former MNA Maulana Ahmad Ghafoor, MPA Saeed Gul, Jamaat-i-Islami local chief Fazal Wahab, leaders of the Maidan Peace Committee, PPP and other parties also addressed the gathering and assured cooperation to the security forces to maintain law and order in the area.