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KP Governor Highlights Grave Security and Governance Challenges Facing the Province

Islamabad – April 7, 2025:
Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, addressed the opening session of a high-profile seminar organized by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) on the topic “Challenges of Security and Governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa”.

During his keynote address, Governor Kundi candidly acknowledged that the province is currently grappling with multiple critical issues including terrorism, governance voids, and economic instability. He emphasized that corruption and the lack of political ownership further compound the province’s ongoing difficulties.

“To improve the standard of governance in KP, it is essential to ensure transparent use of public funds,” the governor stated. He commended the sacrifices of security forces in restoring peace across the region but cautioned that security threats have not been completely eradicated.

Speaking on the post-merger scenario of the formerly Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), Governor Kundi pointed out that the governance vacuum, border-related criminal activity, and systemic corruption still persist in the merged districts.

He called for effective management of border regions, enhanced inter-institutional coordination, and sustainable policymaking to tackle these enduring challenges. Governor Kundi also reflected on the misuse of development funds over the past decade, remarking that despite legislation, tangible outcomes remain elusive.

For sustainable governance, he stressed the need to empower Public Accounts Committees, conduct public hearings on audit reports, and implement robust accountability mechanisms within the government.

“Without ensuring financial discipline and transparency, the dream of good governance will remain unfulfilled,” the Governor concluded.

Italian Delegation Visits Takht Bhai Ruins Under Tight Security

Italian Delegation Visits Takht Bhai Ruins Under Tight Security

Mardan, April 7 2025

Italian Delegation Visits Takht Bhai Ruins Under Tight Security

On the special directive of District Police Officer (DPO) Mardan, Zahoor Babar Afridi, comprehensive security arrangements were made for a 15-member Italian tourist delegation during their visit to the historic Buddhist ruins of Takht Bhai — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The delegation was escorted with full protocol and protection under the supervision of DSP Takht Bhai Shakeel Khan and DSP Kausar Khan. The police ensured tight security to facilitate a smooth and safe visit for the foreign guests.

The Italian visitors expressed their deep appreciation for the professional conduct and hospitality shown by Mardan Police. They praised the high standard of security provided and conveyed satisfaction over the arrangements made to ensure their safety.

The Takht Bhai ruins are considered one of the most well-preserved ancient Buddhist monastic complexes in South Asia. The site attracts a large number of local and international tourists annually due to its rich cultural and historical significance.

The visiting delegation also commended the efforts being made to preserve this invaluable heritage and acknowledged the importance of promoting such historical sites to the world.

District Bajaur Climate changes

Impacts of Climate Change on Bajaur: Water Scarcity, Heatwaves, and Agricultural Decline

Maaz Khan

Climate change is leaving a profound mark on Bajaur, one of Pakistan’s tribal areas, where water scarcity, heatwaves, and declining agricultural productivity are posing serious challenges. The once-abundant rivers, Rud and Mamund, have seen their water flow reduced by alarming rates. This issue is exacerbated by widespread deforestation and the drying up of natural springs, as confirmed by local residents and experts.

Ajab Khan Kaka, a 70-year-old elder from Bajaur, shared his concerns about the region’s deteriorating water resources. “The water level in our wells has dropped District Bajaur climate changeby 32 feet, and the flow in River Rud and Mamund River has decreased by 70%,” he explained. “Deforestation has destroyed our springs, and without trees, the soil cannot hold moisture. If this continues, our wells will run dry within the next decade. It is heartbreaking to see our once-flourishing rivers now struggling to survive.”

Similarly, Ashna Bajauri, a seasoned local agriculturalist, highlighted the impacts of water scarcity and urbanization on farming. “The situation is dire. Farmers are losing their ability to grow crops due to the lack of water and increasing heat,” he said. “On top of that, fertile agricultural land is being used for construction. If we continue to lose farmland at this pace, Bajaur’s farming tradition will disappear completely. We need immediate action from the government to save our lands and our livelihoods.

The rising temperatures have made heatwaves more frequent and intense, further complicating life in the region. These conditions have left farmers struggling to cultivate their fields, with many abandoning farming altogether. Adding to this burden, urban sprawl is consuming agricultural land, leaving even less space for farming activities.

Experts and locals agree that urgent action is required to address these challenges. A comprehensive afforestation campaign is essential to restore forests, retain soil moisture, and prevent further erosion. Additionally, the government must enforce strict policies to stop the conversion of fertile farmland into construction sites.

Encouraging the construction of homes in mountainous areas could help preserve arable land for agriculture. Another crucial step is the building of small dams to store water for irrigation, ensuring a steady supply for farming needs.

The voices of individuals like Ajab Khan Kaka and Ashna Bajauri underscore the urgency of the situation. If immediate steps are not taken, Bajaur faces the grim reality of losing its rivers, its agriculture, and its resilience to climate change. The government must act now to safeguard the future of this vital region.