Around a month after being uprooted by a counter-terrorism operation, residents of Mamund tehsil in Bajaur have started returning to their villages. The district administration has declared several areas cleared of militants, paving the way for the displaced to move back.
Five localities — Lar Kalan, Bar Kalan, Ganam Shah, Chamyaar Johar, and Chohtra — mostly from Lowi Mamund but also parts of War Mamund tehsil, were under displacement due to acts of terrorism. The people left their homes after a military campaign, Operation Sarbakaf, was launched to clear the region of militant presence.
After authorities announced the areas had been secured, a notification from the office of Deputy Commissioner Shahid Ali Khan instructed that people could return from Wednesday.
Operation Sarbakaf, started in late July 2025, displaced tens of thousands of people from several villages in Lowi Mamund and neighbouring areas. Relief efforts have included camps, shelter in government buildings, and emergency supplies. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa disaster authorities have also promised compensation and support for returning families.
The total number of displaced persons who have already returned has not been disclosed by officials. While some areas are now declared secure, others remain under operations or curfews. Return might be staged or gradual depending on security.
