PESHAWAR: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Saturday presided over a high-level meeting to review the security situation, development projects, governance, and public service delivery across Malakand Division. Senior officials briefed the Chief Minister on the prevailing law and order environment, progress on ongoing development schemes, administrative performance, and the quality of essential services being provided to citizens in the division.
Security Concerns and Directives
Expressing concern over recent attacks on parliamentarians, CM Afridi directed the police to expedite investigations and bring them to a logical conclusion without delay. He emphasised that the protection of citizens' lives and property remains the top priority of the provincial government. "The government will take all necessary steps on an urgent basis to ensure public safety," the Chief Minister said, adding that the K-P police and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) are being equipped with modern weapons and advanced technology to bolster their operational capabilities.
He instructed the authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and narcotics, directing coordinated and indiscriminate enforcement actions throughout Malakand Division to create a safe and peaceful environment for the public.
Development Projects and Public Welfare
On the development front, CM Afridi ordered the release of full funding for two flagship projects, the Paediatrics Hospital and Arshad Sharif University in Swat. He also directed the establishment of dedicated shelters for labourers and the provision of cold drinking water and fans at public places to provide relief during the hot weather.
Reviewing the performance of government departments, the Chief Minister stressed the need to measure success through tangible improvements in public satisfaction. "We must assess our performance against tangible improvements in public satisfaction and well-being," he remarked. CM Afridi called for further strengthening of service delivery mechanisms, placing citizen satisfaction at the core of all performance evaluations. He directed the administration to continue holding regular open courts for the prompt resolution of public complaints and grievances.
Progress on Development Schemes
The meeting was informed that work is progressing on 737 development schemes across Malakand Division, with 99 per cent of the allocated development funds already utilised. Fortification of police infrastructure is also underway. Currently, 14 Police Facilitation Centres are operational in the division, while three more are under construction.
The meeting was attended by Members of the National and Provincial Assemblies elected from Malakand Division, Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police, Divisional Commissioner, Regional Police Officer, and other senior officials.
