Mohmand Marble Factory Owners End Protest After Productive Talks

Marble factory owners in Mohmand have decided to end their five-day protest sit-in following productive discussions with the district administration. The Assistant Commissioner of Upper Mohmand, accompanied by the police, engaged in dialogues with the owners in the Durba-kher area of Halimzai tehsil.

The district administration, represented by Assistant Commissioner Sajjad Hussain Afridi, assured the owners of prioritizing peace and security. They addressed concerns such as the tax on marble and high electricity bills, promising to find solutions to these issues. Patrol parties will be deployed to protect the factories, with security personnel stationed at entry and exit points.

The district administration acknowledged the worries of the factory owners and pledged full support. Higher authorities will be briefed on the concerns raised by the owners, including heavy taxes and electricity bills. Steps will be taken to investigate threatening calls received by the owners. Following these discussions, the factory owners expressed gratitude towards the district administration and announced the reopening of all factories.

The protest began after a marble factory in the Sangar area of Halimzai tehsil was set on fire by unidentified gunmen who demanded extortion. Moreover, a police check post in the same vicinity was attacked with hand grenades, resulting in injuries to a police sepoy. The factory owners demanded government intervention to ensure safety and security, as well as to alleviate the burden of high electricity bills and other taxes.

The resolution of the protest through constructive dialogue between the marble factory owners and the district administration highlights the importance of communication and cooperation in addressing grievances. The commitment to enhancing security measures and addressing financial concerns demonstrates a positive step towards fostering a conducive business environment. By working together, both parties have shown a willingness to collaborate for the betterment of the community and the local economy.