Bashir Hussain Azad | Chitral Today
Chiytral, Jan 5, 2026: Elders of the valleys of Bumburet, Birir and Rumbur have demanded that the provincial government impose a ban on all developmental and non-developmental activities of the Kalash Valley Development Authority (KVDA) until a decision on the matter by the Peshawar High Court.
Addressing a press conference at Chitral Press Club on Monday, Malik Shae, Kamaluddin, Mohiuddin, Ibadullah, Aziz Ahmad, Qudratullah, Abdul Rafiq Advocate, Akhtar Mohammad, Abdul Wahid and others stated that in 2019, the then provincial government established the Kalash Valley Development Authority under the guise of regional development.
However, upon closer examination of its policies and laws, it became apparent that the policies were harmful and oppressive to the people of their valleys. They noted that the primary sources of livelihood for the people in these areas are livestock farming and agriculture, and the implementation of these oppressive policies could entirely destroy their means of livelihood.
“We do not oppose development, but we are against the imposition of unjust and forced policies and laws. Unfortunately, the focus of this authority is solely to control the land in the region under the guise of development, impose taxes on the area and generate revenue, while imposing heavy fines on the locals for non-compliance,” they said.
The elders further pointed out that since the inception of the KVDA, the people of the valleys have held multiple protests and approached relevant institutions, the concerned MPA, and other authorities. However, their concerns have been completely ignored, and no serious action has been taken so far.
“Now, since our case against KVDA is still pending in the High Court, the authority is continuing its activities. We are once again compelled to demand, through the Press Club, that the provincial government terminate this authority’s operations in our valleys. Otherwise, the people will react strongly. We will not allow tourists to enter the region, and if, God forbid, any untoward incident occurs, the full responsibility will lie with the KVDA and the provincial government.”
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