Ismaili Volunteer Martyred While Clearing Road

Staff Correspondent

Booni, May 6, 2026: An Ismaili volunteer, Muhammad Wali, from Khuz lost his life after sustaining a fatal head injury when struck by a falling rock while repairing Yarkhun road near Kargin in Upper Chitral.

The incident occurred while Wali, along with fellow volunteers, was engaged in clearing a road near Ishper Zom ahead of the anticipated visit of Ismaili Imam Prince Rahim Aga Khan to the region.

During the effort, a stone dislodged from above and hit him on the head, killing him on the spot.

Wali, popularly known as “W Ustad”, was a driver by profession, and widely known in the area for his dedication to volunteer service. His sudden death has sent shockwaves across the valley, with residents expressing grief and paying tribute to his selflessness and sacrifice.

He was the sole breadwinner of his family, who now awaits support from relevant authorities and institutions.

Tragically, years ago his house was vanished in floods and he, along with his family was living in a tent. The family still resides in a shelter, and his four school-going kids now have no one to support.

The tragedy has also renewed concerns over inadequate road infrastructure and the lack of timely government intervention in Chitral, which often forces local communities to undertake such hazardous tasks themselves.