Our Correspondent
WANA: Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan announced the launch of high-speed 3G and 4G mobile broadband in South Waziristan of tribal districts.
Addressing a cheque distribution ceremony for the applicants of the Kamyab Jawan Loan Scheme and the Youth Internship Scheme, the premier announced: “I know that 3G and 4G are important for education and development and this was a huge demand of the youth, one that is justified.
He said that internet access in the area was previously denied due to security concerns, with the major apprehension that technology could be used by miscreants backed by India.
However, he said, after consultations with Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI Chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, it was decided to launch internet services to facilitate the residents, particularly students, as most educational institutions had started online classes.
He regretted that tribal areas of Pakistan had suffered immensely due to militancy in the past, adding that it was time to compensate them.
The Prime Minister said that about 70% of the population in Waziristan was living below the poverty line. “That’s why we have the EHAS program, which aims to develop those living below the poverty line by providing them with cash and benefits.”
PM said, that the tribal people have given immense sacrifices for the country, and only time would prove that the decision to merge tribal districts with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was the best one. He pointed out that certain elements tried to create hurdles in the way of mergers, but credit goes to the tribal people for foiling their attempts.
