South Waziristan's Critical Wana-Gomal Zam Road Deteriorates Despite Reconstruction Plans
The Wana-Gomal Zam Road in South Waziristan, a key trade and communication route connecting Pakistan to Afghanistan, has deteriorated to near-collapse due to years of neglect and weather damage. Tribal elders and local residents report the road has become virtually unusable with deep potholes, damaged bridges, and muddy stretches, while a reconstruction project worth approximately Rs25 billion awaits approval. The road's condition is disrupting regional commerce, cross-border trade, and access to essential services for thousands of daily users.
The Wana-Gomal Zam Road in Lower South Waziristan has reached a critical state of disrepair, with residents and tribal elders describing it as nearly unusable after months of deterioration. The route serves as a vital link between Wana and Gomal Zam and connects Pakistan with Afghanistan through the Angoor Adda border crossing, making it strategically and economically significant. Extensive damage from heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides has created deep potholes, broken surfaces, and damaged bridges and culverts along the route. The executive engineer of the Communication and Works Department confirmed the severity of the situation and revealed that a reconstruction project costing approximately Rs25 billion has been prepared and submitted for approval, though commencement depends on funding release. Local transporters and traders report the deteriorated conditions have forced many to suspend operations or take lengthy alternative routes, increasing costs and delays while disrupting cross-border commerce and local markets.
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- DawnCenter
South Waziristan tribal elders decry hardship as Wana-Gomal Zam road remains in ruins
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