NORTH WAZIRISTAN: Another key bridge in Mir Ali tehsil of North Waziristan district was destroyed in a late-night explosion, cutting off access to nearby settlements, markets, and agricultural lands, authorities said.
The blast took place in Khushhali (Makinah) village and was carried out by unidentified assailants, according to police.
Security forces and police cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. Officials confirmed that the type of explosives used is being determined, evidence has been collected, and search operations are ongoing from multiple angles. Authorities are also considering establishing a temporary alternative route to ease public hardship.
The bridge’s destruction has severely disrupted daily life. Residents said school-going children, patients, the elderly, and women are the most affected. Agricultural activities have been stalled, and local businesses have suffered losses. Ambulances and other emergency services are facing significant obstacles, causing public distress.
Local tribal elder Malik Din Sardar condemned the attack, saying, “This bridge was the lifeline of our area. Now it has become extremely difficult to transport patients to hospitals. How long will we keep paying the price for such actions?” Social activist Jalal Khan added that repeated attacks on infrastructure show that ordinary citizens’ hardships are being ignored.
North Waziristan has witnessed a surge in attacks on infrastructure in recent months. On January 15, another bridge over the Kurram River was destroyed using explosives, and work on that bridge has yet to begin. Mir Ali tehsil also saw two incidents of terrorist attacks on government schools within a week. In December, terrorists blew up a link bridge in the Mamandkhel area of Bannu district, disrupting public movement. In November, two incidents involved attempted attacks on bridges in Bannu, one of which detonated prematurely, killing the attacker.
The repeated destruction of bridges and public infrastructure has forced some local tribes to migrate to safer areas, heightening concerns about security and stability.
Authorities and residents have urged federal and provincial governments to take immediate action, including protecting critical infrastructure, providing compensation for losses, and implementing effective long-term security measures. Police said intelligence-based operations have been intensified to apprehend the perpetrators.
The ongoing attacks highlight the vulnerability of North Waziristan’s infrastructure and the urgent need for both temporary and permanent solutions to ensure the safety and mobility of local communities.
