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29 Children Die in Kurram Due to Medicine Shortage Amid Road Blockades
Tragic loss in Kurram as 29 children die in the past two months due to a severe shortage of medicines, worsened by road closures. A Grand Jirga will meet today to address the crisis.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-17
29 Children Die in Kurram Due to Medicine Shortage Amid Road Blockades

The situation in Kurram District has reached a critical point, with the local hospital revealing that 29 children have died over the past two months due to a severe shortage of medicines. The shortage is compounded by the closure of the Peshawar-Parachinar main highway, which has been blocked for the last 70 days, severely restricting the supply of essential goods, including food, petrol, gas, and medical supplies.

The Medical Superintendent (MS) of Parachinar Hospital expressed grave concerns over the worsening crisis, warning that the situation could deteriorate further unless immediate action is taken to address the shortages. The lack of basic healthcare facilities, particularly essential medicines, is threatening to escalate the humanitarian emergency in the region.

Road Closures and Ongoing Crisis

The main roads in Kurram District, which are essential for the transportation of goods and services, have been blocked following violent clashes between tribal groups in the area. These clashes, which resulted in the deaths of over 100 individuals, have not only caused a significant loss of life but also paralyzed normal life in the district. The road closures have left residents unable to access essential supplies and services, with the district’s healthcare system being particularly hard hit.

The MS of Parachinar Hospital stated that while efforts are being made to continue providing healthcare, the shortages in medicine and medical supplies are creating an insurmountable challenge. The hospital is facing an increasing number of patients and is unable to meet the growing demands due to the lack of critical medical resources.

Grand Jirga to Address Law and Order

In response to the ongoing law and order situation in Kurram, the Deputy Commissioner of the district, Javedullah, confirmed that the Grand Jirga, a traditional council of elders, will convene again today to discuss the security situation and the way forward. The Jirga, which plays a central role in resolving disputes and ensuring peace in the region, is expected to address not only the tribal conflict but also the broader issues caused by the road closures and shortages.

The closure of the roads has led to severe hardship for the residents of Kurram, especially in terms of healthcare and the availability of basic supplies. Local authorities are hoping that the Grand Jirga’s efforts will lead to a resolution that can allow access to the district and alleviate the humanitarian crisis.

As the situation continues to unfold, there is growing pressure on the provincial and federal governments to intervene and provide assistance to the affected populations in Kurram, ensuring that the necessary medical and food supplies are delivered without further delay.

 
Tagged:

KurramCrisis

HealthcareEmergency

RoadBlockades
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