Pakistan seals Durand Line in Parachinar

KABUL in tribal region of Kurram as part of security arrangement for Yaum-i-Ashur (the 10th of Muharram), a media report said on Thursday.

The border was closed in Parachinar, a sectarian hot spot in northwestern Pakistan, where Shiite and Sunni Muslim often clash during Ashura processions.

Citing unnamed officials, The News International reported on extraordinary security arrangements, including border closure, had been put in place to ensure peaceful observance of Muharramul Haram in the region.

Jirgas were being arranged in the tribal region to ensure sectarian harmony, Kurram Political Agent Riaz Khan Mehsud told the newspaper. Representatives and elders from both sects have been urged to cooperate with law-enforcement personnel.

Officials of Kurram Militia, Thall Scouts, army and Levies have been stationed at all strategic points, including roads leading to Parachinar, which has seen a string of deadly sectarian attacks over the years.

 Mehsud said: “To meet any emergency situation, a crisis management unit has been established with the additional political agent as the focal person. The civil apparatus including ambulances, fire brigade, are placed at his disposal.”

PAN Monitor/mud

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