Khairuddin Shadani | ChitralToday
CHITRAL: The federal government has taken concrete steps to address the longstanding concerns of the Kalash Valley residents, following official directives from the Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission.
On July 22, 2025, the Commission sent a letter to the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, criticizing the Kalash Valley Development Authority’s bylaws introduced in 2020.
These regulations imposed 38 penalties and 18 taxes without consulting the local community. The Commission called the measures burdensome and culturally inappropriate, urging the ministry to review and revise the bylaws immediately to respect the valley’s heritage and protect the rights of its indigenous people.
Responding on July 28, the Ministry thanked the Commission for highlighting the issue and pledged to prioritize the matter. It also confirmed plans to coordinate with relevant agencies to implement appropriate reforms.
Meanwhile, Member of National Assembly Ghazala Anjum told ChitralToday that Inspection Commission Chairman Muzaffar Ranjha remains fully committed to the promises he made during his recent visit to Chitral. She said he personally met with local residents and leaders of the Kalash community to hear their concerns.
Anjum confirmed that the government has removed all obstacles delaying the Lowari Tunnel approach road, and that the Chairmen of the National Highway Authority (NHA) and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) have received formal instructions to ensure rapid progress.
She said authorities expect to complete the approach road within four months. She also confirmed that the Chitral–Shandur Road project has entered an accelerated phase.
“Officials have assured me of improvements in both construction quality and pace,” Anjum said, adding that she remains in close contact with the NHA and Inspection Commission to ensure follow-through.
MNA Anjum thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman Ranjha, and Chairman NHA for focusing on Chitral’s development and for showing special concern for preserving the Kalash Valley’s cultural identity.