KHAR: An outbreak of anthrax has reportedly killed several animals in Mamond and Salarzai tehsils of Bajaur Agency, local people and officials said on Tuesday.

They said at least 26 cattle heads had been killed and several others infected by the disease in the two mountainous subdivisions. The locals said the disease had spread fear and panic among them.

Meanwhile, sources in the local livestock department confirmed the death of cattle due to the outbreak of anthrax.

They said teams had been dispatched to the affected areas to administer anti-anthrax vaccines to animals.

Assistant director livestock Dr Ahmad Younis said the disease had been reported in various areas of the agency, adding, however, that it had almost been brought under control following the quick measures taken by the department.

JOURNALISTS’ ROLE: Pak Army’s Sector Commander for Northern Command Brig Amir Kiani on Tuesday asked the mediapersons to avoid exaggerating the violence-related incidents and help the security forces in improving the soft image of Bajaur Agency.

The security forces are committed to boosting the image of agency by keeping an exemplary peace in the region, and we request the journalists to play their due role in this respect,” he said while talking to a delegation of local journalists at Bajaur Scouts Headquarters here.

He said maintaining exemplary peace in the region was security forces’ top priority.

Brig Kiani claimed the law and order situation had significantly improved across the agency following the joint efforts of security forces and the tribesmen. He said some elements were trying to sabotage peace and stability, but they would not succeed in their nefarious mission.

The sector commander said the forces were determined to ensure provision of modern facilities to the people.

He said journalists should work for the larger interest of the region, asking them to work for promotion of peace, tolerance and patience in the community.

Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2017