Prolonged Section 144 imposition disrupts life in Miramshah

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A soldier stands in front of closed shops during a military operation against Taliban in the town of Miranshah in North Waziristan on July 9, 2014. — Reuters/File
A soldier stands in front of closed shops during a military operation against Taliban in the town of Miranshah in North Waziristan on July 9, 2014. — Reuters/File

MIRAMSHAH: Section 144 remained enforced in Miramshah for the eighth consecutive day on Wednesday, disrupting life due to an ongoing security operation, suspension of communication services, closure of educational institutions and restrictions on movement across the region.

The main Miramshah-Bannu Road witnessed limited traffic, while mobile phone and internet services remained suspended, leaving residents struggling to maintain contact with relatives and business associates.

Local residents also reported difficulties in obtaining food and other basic necessities in some areas.

Official sources said security forces were continuing operations in and around Miramshah and that restrictions imposed under Section 144 would remain in place until the security situation improved.

Government and private educational institutions in Miramshah have remained closed for more than a week, affecting thousands of students. A teacher at a government school, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that academic activities and examinations had been severely disrupted.

“Practical examinations and papers for grades 11 and 12 are being cancelled or postponed. Students are losing valuable academic time. Educational opportunities are already limited in the region, and a prolonged closure will further affect their studies,” he said.

A teacher at a private school said the suspension of internet services had also eliminated the possibility of online learning.

“In major cities, students at least have access to online classes during disruptions. Here, both mobile and internet services are unavailable, leaving students completely disconnected from education,” he said.

Local traders said business activity had declined sharply due to communication restrictions and reduced public movement.

“Markets are open, but business is almost at a standstill. People are staying indoors and customers from surrounding areas are unable to reach the town,” said a shopkeeper in Miramshah Bazaar.

Another trader said the internet shutdown had disrupted digital transactions and banking-related activities.

“Many payments and business transactions now depend on mobile applications and online systems.

“The absence of internet connectivity has created additional difficulties for traders,” he said.

Residents of Palangzai village on the outskirts of Miramshah reported shortages of essential food items, including flour, sugar and vegetables, due to restricted movement and disruptions in supply chains.

A local elder said stocks of basic commodities at some shops were rapidly diminishing.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026

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