Khyber ARDC Demands Probe Instead of Dropping Projects

ARDC Members Oppose Cancellation of Approved Projects

Members of the Area Representative and Development Council (ARDC) from Khyber district and the president of the Bara Traders Association have strongly opposed the alleged cancellation of approved development projects in the district, especially in Bara tehsil. They have demanded transparent investigations into any irregularities and correction of technical flaws instead of removing the schemes from the Annual Development Programme (ADP).

Haji Sherin Afridi Stresses Projects Must Continue

ARDC member Haji Sherin Afridi told The Express Tribune that he had made it clear on every relevant forum that the approved projects for Khyber district, especially Bara, must continue. After reports of possible cancellations, he contacted the concerned officials. A council meeting is scheduled for the next day to discuss the matter further.

"Projects facing allegations of commissions, financial irregularities or favouritism towards preferred contractors should be investigated by the government," Afridi said.

He added that relevant authorities had earlier assured that the projects would not be cancelled.

Funds Must Be Spent in Khyber District

Public-interest schemes should be completed with quality materials and in accordance with standard operating procedures, while any irregularities must be probed transparently. Funds approved for Khyber must be spent in the district and not returned, he stressed, adding that every effort would be made for the restoration of the projects.

Izzatullah Hamkhayal on Project Suspension

ARDC member from Bara tehsil, Izzatullah Hamkhayal, said the council had already clarified that approved projects for Khyber would not be cancelled. Where complaints of irregularities existed, re-examination had been discussed, not outright termination. Projects could be suspended temporarily if needed, but those of public benefit on the ground should be completed. The matter would be reviewed in the upcoming council meeting.

Bara Traders Association Calls It Discrimination

Syed Ayaz Wazir, president of the Bara Traders Association, described the reported cancellations as injustice and discrimination against war-affected tribal people.