PARACHINAR, April 14: Eight persons were killed and another 16 sustained injuries in the clashes between rival sects in Parachinar, Kurram Agency, on Monday.

Amid free use of mortar, missiles, automatic weapons and rockets by the rival factions, 10 injured persons and eight students were evacuated from the violence-wracked area through army helicopters.

Residents of the area said that the ongoing clashes have halted the routine activities of life. Most of the inhabitants of the violence-hit area needed treatment and medicines, they added. They said that they stockpiled foodstuff which was also running out due to the longevity of the clashes, which continued for ten consecutive days on Monday. The area has been cut from the rest of the country because of the on going conflict.