Landi Kotal: The prolonged closure of a major highway has left the people of Landi Kotal frustrated and struggling with severe shortages of essential goods, and the local trade has been devastated. In a rally held in Landi Kotal Bazaar, Torkham Customs Clearing Agents' Chairman, Mirajuddin Shinwari, and other speakers expressed their grievances over the situation, threatening to stage a protest in front of the cantonment if the road is not reopened.
Speaking at the protest, Shinwari stated that for the past twelve days, the Kokikhel tribe has blocked the highway to press their legitimate demands, causing immense hardship for the residents of Landi Kotal. He highlighted that transport, trade, and the daily lives of ordinary people are severely affected by the ongoing blockade.
Shinwari urged the Commandant of Khyber Rifles to intervene and facilitate the opening of the route at Bhagyari and to resolve the issues of the Kuki Khel tribe by accepting their legitimate demands. He warned that if traffic on the highway is not restored soon, he will lead a protest in front of the Landi Kotal Cantonment along with the people.
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While calling for the reopening of the highway, Shinwari emphasized that they do not support any tribal conflicts or prejudices. He suggested that if the Kuki Khel tribe wishes to continue their protest, they should do so in Takhte Baig or Jamrud to avoid further distress to the residents of Landi Kotal.
Speakers at the protest also pointed out that the closure of the highway at Bhagyari is causing irreparable damage to the national treasury and Pak-Afghan trade, while travelers stranded on the road are suffering greatly.
