MALIK Din Khel, a tribal area in Tirah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), is a region of unmatched natural beauty and cultural richness. Yet, it remains severely neglected, grappling with a lack of basic infrastruc-ture, particularly in terms of education and healthcare.

The education system has been ravaged by years of conflict in the region. Many schools were thoroughly destroyed during the extended phase of unrest, and the few that remain are poorly equipped. Experienced faculty, libraries and proper classrooms are just not there. The neglect deprives brilliant students of their fundamental right to quality education, keeping them trapped in the vicious cycle of poverty.

The healthcare system is another tale of neglect. The area has only a couple of hospitals, and they lack modern technology and basic facilities. Pregnant women especially face significant risks due to the absence of essential services. Adding to the crisis, several local pharmacies sell substandard medicines, jeopardising the health of the area residents.

This persistent neglect highlights the incompetence of local leaders and governmental indifference. Malik Din Khel’s resilient residents deserve a better deal, comprising access to quality education and healthcare, as well as the opportunity to live their life with due dignity. It is imperative for both provincial and federal authorities to act decisively to address these challenges and uplift this struggling community.

Suleman Afridi
Tirah

Published in Dawn, December 24th, 2024