Unnecessary check-posts abolished in Swat district: Roadside checkpoints reduced from 51 to six

MINGORA: After a series of protests against the security check-posts in Swat, the military and police reached a consensus to deploy cops along with the soldiers at checkpoints and withdraw the first investigation reports (FIRs) lodged against several protesters.

People from different parts of the district staged protests against the roadside security checkposts, claiming that they had been suffering due to the long wait as their precious time was being wasted.

It is pertinent that the people in Swat staged protests in Mingora city and Khwazakhela last month. The protestors belonged to different walks of life.

Following the protests, the police lodged FIRs under treason laws against some protesters. However, the FIRs were withdrawn after the Swat Qaumi Jirga held negotiations with the police and military authorities.

The protests helped changed the existing situation as most of the checkposts have either been handed over to the police or are being jointly operated by cops and personnel of the security forces. “We appreciate the security forces for eliminating terrorism from Swat. However, we want the local people to be respected,” Ahmad Shah, spokesman of the Swat Qaumi Jirga told the News.

He said that Pakhtuns needed security and respect to live a peaceful life in their province. According to officials, the number of checkposts has been reduced in Swat from 51 to six only.

"After the last month’s protests by the locals, the situation has improved and unnecessary checking is not carried out. The attitude of the security personnel at the checkposts has also improved," said Amjad Ali, a teacher at a private school.

He added that the legislators from Swat and other parts of Malakand Division should play their due role to ease the life of the people in the once militancy-hit region.

Fazle Maula Zahid, an active member of Swat Qaumi Jirga, told this scribe that the people of Swat were patriotic, peace-loving and committed to contributing to the country's development. He said that Swat was progressing tremendously before the reign of militancy but unfortunately the acts of subversion pushed back the people of Swat.

He said that people should be provided a better and peaceful life. He maintained that Swat had enormous potential for tourism, forestry, medicinal plants and agriculture.

"If concerted efforts are made, the people of Swat would be able to achieve their past glory, which they lost due to the worst law and order in the region," he maintained.

When contacted, an army official in Swat told The News that measures had been taken to facilitate the people at checkposts.

“The number of checkposts has been reduced from 51 to six only. And at all checkposts police are jointly operating along with security personnel. Keeping in view the local traditions, Pakhtun soldiers have been deployed at checkpoints and special lanes have been reserved for ambulances, women and elders,” he added.

“We are also trying to boost the tourism industry in scenic Swat valley with the collaboration of the civil administration, traders and the hotel association Swat,” he added.