In a recent act of violence, at least 38 people, including a woman, were killed when gunmen opened fire on passenger vehicles in the Ochat area of Kurram district. Police confirmed the incident to the media on Thursday.
The convoy was traveling from Parachinar to Peshawar when it was targeted by the assailants. Several people were injured in the attack, including three women. The ongoing violence in the region has escalated in recent months, causing severe problems for the local population.
The district has seen ongoing clashes between various tribes and groups. These conflicts have resulted in the loss of many lives. In addition to the deaths, the violence has forced the closure of major roads and the border with Afghanistan. This has created significant challenges for the residents of Kurram.
Local elders have raised alarms about the situation. They warned that the continuous road closures could lead to a severe humanitarian crisis. The shortages of food, medicine, and fuel are already being felt in the region. If the roads remain closed, it could make the situation even worse.
The Turi and Bangash tribes, in particular, have voiced concerns over the lack of essential supplies. They have pointed out that the closure of roads is causing food and fuel shortages. This has raised fears of a major crisis. Additionally, the suspension of mobile services, including 3G and 4G networks, has caused trouble for students and businesses. It has impacted education and daily life.
The violence has also had a direct impact on travel. After a series of shootings on passenger vehicles last month, key routes like Parachinar-Peshawar were closed. People feared further attacks, which have disrupted life in the region. The violence is not new. Back in September, clashes between rival tribes resulted in 60 deaths and many injuries. The fighting was sparked over a dispute over land.
In August, a temporary ceasefire was agreed upon after clashes left 50 dead and 226 injured. But the violence continues, and the future remains uncertain for those living in the area.
The situation in Kurram is dire. Locals are calling for an end to the violence and for a resolution to the ongoing tribal disputes. Without immediate action, the humanitarian crisis in the region may only grow worse.
