Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the law-and-order situation in the province, highlighting that police and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel are performing their duties under war-like conditions on the frontline against terrorism. He made these remarks while talking to participants of the 46th Mid-Career Management Course during a meeting at the Governor House in Peshawar.
Security Challenges and Border Concerns
The Governor attributed the province's security challenges to its proximity to the Afghan border, foreign interference, and abandoned weapons in the region. He noted that the police force is engaged in a type of conflict for which it was not originally trained, yet it is bravely confronting terrorist threats. Referring to specific security concerns, Kundi said there are apprehensions regarding the alleged involvement of some Afghan nationals in terrorist activities. He added that repeated requests have been made to Afghanistan for action against militants, but adequate cooperation has not been forthcoming.
Regarding border management, the Governor stated that the closure of border routes is causing economic losses to both countries. He confirmed that the repatriation of illegally residing Afghan nationals has been initiated in line with international norms, while emphasizing that Pakistan welcomes Afghan citizens entering the country through legal channels.
Regional Diplomacy and Economic Disparities
Discussing regional affairs, Kundi said Pakistan responded effectively to Indian aggression following the Pulwama incident and that international pressure helped avert a wider conflict. He also noted that Pakistan played a mediatory role during tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, contributing to regional stability through diplomacy.
Turning to economic issues, the Governor pointed out that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa produces some of the cheapest electricity in the country but is supplied power at higher rates. He added that despite being among the leading producers of oil and gas, the province continues to face electricity and gas load-shedding. He also mentioned that thousands of posts allocated to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in WAPDA remain vacant and highlighted problems such as CNG closures and other economic difficulties. Kundi stressed that the constitutional rights and resource shares of the province must be ensured, including water rights under the 1991 Water Accord.
Provincial Potential and Resource Distribution
Highlighting the province's potential, Kundi said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa offers vast opportunities in tourism, religious tourism, and sports. He noted that while educational institutions are increasing, lack of funds remains a major challenge, with universities facing financial constraints and difficulties in paying salaries and pensions. The Governor said both treasury and opposition parties in the province share a common stance on securing provincial rights from the federation. He added that merged tribal districts have yet to receive their due share of resources and alleged that funds allocated for those areas have not been utilized effectively.
Kundi emphasized that the province's population and geographical area have expanded significantly after the merger of the former tribal districts, making a new National Finance Commission (NFC) Award necessary. He said discussions are underway regarding the establishment of an oil refinery and fertilizer industry in the province, while stressing that local communities should receive a share in mineral development projects.
