SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: The recent spell of heavy rainfall and flash flooding in the tribal districts bordering Afghanistan, particularly Upper and Lower South Waziristan and North Waziristan, has significantly raised concerns over the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXOs) in populated areas.

Security forces sources told Dawn on Tuesday that powerful flood currents carried explosive remnants, including landmines, from rugged border highlands into nearby streams, open fields and residential zones. The situation poses a life-threatening risk to local residents, especially children and shepherds, who may inadvertently come into contact with such hazardous materials.

They warned that even minor disturbance or handling of these devices could result in deadly explosions. In light of the danger, local administrations and security forces have urged residents to avoid flood channels, streams and other unfamiliar or affected locations, especially those near border regions.

Citizens have also been strictly advised not to touch or approach any suspicious metallic objects, packets or debris.

Security sources say flash floods carried explosive remnants from border highlands to streams, open fields

Parents have been asked to closely monitor their children and ensure they stay away from water and open spaces where explosive material may be present.

Officials expressed concern that children could unknowingly play with such objects, potentially leading to fatal consequences.

Security forces and district administration officials stressed that any suspected ordnance or unusual items should be immediately reported to the nearest police station, Rescue 1122, or security forces. Timely reporting is crucial to ensure appropriate response and safe disposal.

The security forces and local administration officials have also appealed to community elders, tribal leaders, and school officials to help spread awareness about the risks and encourage safety measures in their respective areas.

Security sources indicated that clearance operations are being considered to identify and defuse potentially hazardous materials swept in by recent floods. However, continued rainfall and poor weather conditions have delayed the initiation of such efforts.

SIT-IN ENTERS FIFTH DAY: The sit-in organised by the Mutahida Siyasi Aman Pasoon (a peace movement) entered its fifth day on Tuesday, as demonstrators demanded urgent action to resolve local issues.

Leaders of the movement led a large public rally through Wana’s Rustam Bazaar, which was shut down for two hours. The demonstration drew widespread participation, signalling growing public support for the movement.

Addressing the gathering, key figures, including Maulana Rafiuddin, Amanullah, Ayaz Wazir, Haroon Wazir, Asadullah, and PTM coordinator Shehzad Wazir reiterated that the protest is grounded in the constitutional, legal, and democratic rights of the tribal people. They noted that daily delegations from across the region continue to join in solidarity with their cause.

On Tuesday, all shops and markets in Wana remained closed in response to the sit-in call.

Protesters maintained that law and order was a fundamental need of every citizen and pledged to remain engaged in the movement until tangible actions were taken.

Religious leaders, lawyers, tribal elders, and PTM representatives from various parts of Lower South Waziristan and surrounding areas arrived in Wana in delegations. Each group publicly endorsed the four-point agenda and described the sit-in as a timely response to chronic issues that have plagued the region for years.

Speakers demanded immediate reopening of Angoor Adda border crossing, local ownership and royalty rights over minerals, restoration of law and order, and ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply from the Gomal Zam Dam to Wana and adjacent areas.

Published in Dawn, July 16th, 2025