Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi stated on Wednesday that the provincial government's primary focus is combating terrorism, followed by efforts to foster peace, prosperity, and development. Speaking to local elders and prominent figures in Dera Ismail Khan after leading a high-level meeting, Kundi noted he received briefings regarding security arrangements, administrative affairs, law and order, and ongoing development projects.
The governor dismissed reports as baseless rumors claiming that the 12 districts under emergency were being merged with former tribal areas or turned into separate provinces. Kundi explained that these 12 districts were identified specifically because of their vulnerability to terrorism. He stated that 70% of the Rs160 billion federal development package announced by the prime minister would be spent in those areas.
Regarding regional development, Kundi noted that the foundation of the Daanish School System is being laid in the region, with further initiatives to follow. He also announced the provincial government is allocating Rs40 billion for the Bannu, Malakand, and Dera Ismail Khan divisions to meet police department requirements. These funds are intended for the construction and improvement of DPO offices, DIG offices, police stations, and check posts.
Kundi highlighted that approximately 17,000 posts in the police department are currently vacant and stated that the department's infrastructure and staffing needs would be addressed. To support the families of security personnel who died fighting terrorism, he announced the establishment of a cadet college in K-P for their children. "We want to strengthen institutions rather than individuals," Kundi said, noting that the government would welcome and implement constructive suggestions from community elders and local representatives.
Addressing the Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC) breach, Kundi said authorities have been given a deadline of Nov 15 to 20 to restore the water supply.
The K-P police have requested a special Rs40 billion package from the federal government to bolster security in the 12 terrorism-hit districts. A master security plan has been submitted to the federal government seeking funds to provide specialized training, modern technology, weapons, and bulletproof vehicles, while also enhancing police capacity.
