GHIZER, Sept 24: In the wake of Rehman Malik’s announcement about potential target killing along the Ghizar-Chitral road, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has sealed the road completely for passenger buses including the government owned NATCO service.
[caption id="attachment_4211" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Ishkoman Bridge on Chitral-Gilgit Highway"][/caption]
That suspension would remain so for an indefinite time sources said.
Few days ago, the GB government had stopped private companies to run their bus service along the route. The NATCO, under strict security, was running its buses but not anymore. The suspension of transportation on this route altogether has put travelers in great hardship. This route is considered one of the safest routes due to the cultural and ethnic linkages between the Ghizar and Chitral Districts. The region has gone back to the colonial age when people used to walk in Marches in order to get to the nearby valleys.
Public here region have dissented the government decision to lay siege to the residents rather than crushing the so called terrorists. About 60% youth of Ghizar District is serving in military, protecting lives and liberty of Pakistani residents in Waziristan, Siachin,Wanna, Swat while a handful of untouchable terrorists have suffocated the residents from all directions of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Talking to media residents condemned the decision of the government. “The KP and GB government have failed to give any security to people of the region. It seems that soon the government will direct people to close their shops and markets for fear of potential terrorist threats. The decision to stop the transportation better serves the gaols of the terrorists – reflecting a direct impact of their action.” Residents said.
Residents in Ghizar said that if thousands of Northern Light Infantry (NLI) and Gilgit Scouts Jawans cannot safeguard the life, liberty and honour of their own people than they are in the wrong business. It is worth to note that a handful of unknown miscreants have blanked the 1.5 million people of Gilgit Baltistan with fear. The government thus far has relied on precautionary measures rather than any security measures.-Dardistan Times]]>
