Key Takeaways
- Section 144 restrictions imposed in Lower and Upper South Waziristan.
- Movement and market access restricted amid security concerns.
- Restrictions aimed at facilitating logistical supplies for security forces.
The district administrations of Lower and Upper South Waziristan have imposed Section 144 restrictions for Saturday, restricting public movement and closing markets and major routes. These measures were taken in response to security concerns and to ensure the safe transportation of logistical supplies for security forces.
Lower South Waziristan Deputy Commissioner Musarrat Zaman and Upper South Waziristan Deputy Commissioner Irfan Ali issued separate notifications on Friday evening, detailing the restrictions. According to the Lower South Waziristan notification, Section 144 was enforced in Wana Bazaar, the Wana Bypass, and several other localities.
The restrictions prohibited movement along several routes, including those passing through Wana, Tiarza Gate, Karab Kot, Tanai, Azizabad Chowk, and Dargai Bridge. Entry onto the routes connecting Gul Kach with Toi Khullah and Tanai was also strictly prohibited. Travel along the affected routes would be permitted only in emergencies and with prior authorisation from the police or security forces.
Residents were advised to avoid unnecessary movement and comply with the instructions issued by the authorities. The notification also directed motorists to stop their vehicles at least 50 metres away upon seeing security forces. Officials stated that these measures were intended to facilitate security arrangements during the movement of logistical supplies.
In Upper South Waziristan, the administration issued a separate notification imposing Section 144 in Servekai and Sararogha tehsils and several adjoining areas. The restrictions were introduced for similar security reasons, particularly in connection with the transportation of logistical supplies for security forces.
The notification also ordered the closure of markets and commercial centres in the affected areas. Entry was prohibited on several routes, including those leading to Ladha, Makeen, Sararogha, and Nazar Khel. Restrictions were also imposed on roads leading to Dargai Bridge, Madi Jan, Sheen Warsak, and Jandola. Other routes affected by the order included those passing through Servekai, Moley Khan Sarai, Barwand, Asman Manza, and Torwam.
The administration directed residents to refrain from travelling through the restricted areas until permitted by the relevant authorities. However, the notification allowed travel in emergencies, subject to authorisation from the police or security forces and verification of identity documents. Special provisions were also made for polio workers and vaccination teams, allowing them to move through the affected areas after establishing their identities.
Both administrations urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, follow official instructions, and avoid unnecessary travel. The measures were intended to ensure the smooth transportation of supplies and maintain security in the region.
