In Tirah Valley, thousands of families are once again leaving their homes in a desperate rush to safety, signals serious situation in such harsh weather.
However, several reports indicate various reasons as a mass exodus is underway following reports of a potential military cleanup operation against militant groups in the area or the harsh weather.
The timing couldn’t be worse. Families, including children and the elderly, are traveling through heavy snowfall and freezing mountain paths.
Sadly, the harsh winter and dangerous terrain have already led to reports of accidents and deaths during the journey.
Many are arriving in Bara to register for help, where they reportedly receive around 250,000 rupees to help cover rent and basic needs for two months.
While the valley empties out, the government’s message is confusing for the common man.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has downplayed talk of a “major” operation, calling these “intelligence-based actions” and suggesting people are simply moving due to the cold.
However, local tribal elders say they were given a deadline to vacate.
For the people of Tirah, this is a painful cycle they have endured for twenty years, caught between the presence of armed groups and the military’s efforts to secure the region.
All they want is a life where they don’t have to pack their belongings and flee every few years.
