LOWER DIR: A group of citizens from Lower Dir has filed a writ petition in the Peshawar High Court seeking immediate repair. widening of the Chakdara-Timergara Road, arguing that its deteriorating condition poses serious risks to commuters and violates fundamental rights.
The petition was filed by Dr Muhammad Ghayas, Rohullah, Mufti Aizaz Ali Shah, advocates Muhammad Salim Khan. Zarka Advocate against the federal and provincial governments, the National Highway Authority (NHA) and other departments concerned.
Mr Rohullah, one of the petitioners toldDawnat Timergara here on Friday that the road linking Chakdara with Timergara, which also connects Upper Dir, Chitral. Bajaur districts, had become extremely dilapidated, narrow and unsafe due to heavy traffic and lack of proper maintenance.
The petitioners have argued that the poor condition of the road was causing serious difficulties for the public including delays in shifting patients to hospitals, traffic congestion, frequent accidents. hardships for women, children and elderly passengers. The petition added that trade and economic activities in the region were also being badly affected.
According to the petition, the existing single road could no longer handle the increasing traffic load. required immediate conversion into a dual carriageway built as per modern standards.
The petitioners further stated that several seasonal streams intersect the road, but the lack of proper bridges. culverts has led to road blockages and heightened public safety risks during heavy rains and flooding.
They alleged that despite repeated public demands, the authorities had failed to take practical steps for improving the road infrastructure. The petition described the road as a lifeline for Malakand division because it connected Lower Dir, Upper Dir, Chitral. Bajaur districts.
The petitioners also claimed that while several other districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been provided with modern highways. expressways, the people of Dir and adjoining areas were being neglected, which amounted to discriminatory treatment.
The petition requested the court to direct the authorities to immediately repair, widen. reconstruct the Chakdara-Timergara Road, upgrade it into a modern highway, construct bridges and culverts on seasonal streams and prepare a time-bound development plan for the project.
The petitioners also sought interim relief for temporary repair of the road to ensure safe movement of ambulances. public transport until the final decision of the court.
Published in Dawn, May 16th, 2026
Discussion
Sign in to join the thread, react, and share images.