According to a statement issued by ISPR, the COAS was briefed in detail by the formation commander about progress of ongoing operation Zarb-e-Azb, return of TDPs and resettlement works initiated by army in the area.
“Acknowledging the clearance of 650 square KMs of an uncontrolled area in the final phase so far, General Raheel Sharif expressed his complete satisfaction over progress of concluding phase of operation in Shawal,” read the statement. “He appreciated the successes and vowed to continue operations till total elimination of curse of terrorism and extremism from across the country.”
The army chief commended intelligence agencies for matching pace of busting sleeper cells in urban centres in rest of the country.
In his address with the troops, the COAS lauded all officers and men for their courage, determination and spirit of sacrifice displayed by them in Shawal Operation under harsh weather condition and treacherous terrain, stated the ISPR. He was also briefed on the ongoing rehabilitation work, and its effects on the socio-economic landscape of the area.
Expressing satisfaction over rehabilitation work, Gen Sharif directed all concerned to further boost the pace to meet timelines and ensure a dignified and early return of temporarily displaced persons (TDPs) to a better built area.
During the visit, the army chief interacted with tribal elders and recently returned TDPs, and assured them that the army will continue to remain in the area till completion of resettlement process.
At this, the tribal people paid rich tributes to the military for successful operations, and affirmed that with its help, they will never allow the terrorists to return to their area.
The COAS also laid foundation stone of state of the art Younas Khan Sports Complex in Miranshah for the youth, to be constructed by army engineers. Renowned cricketer Younas Khan was also present on the occasion, as the complex was named after him.
General Raheel Sharif also visited Miranshah Bazar, which is being rebuilt by the army after it was devastated in the clearance phase of operation Zarb-e-Azb, as the terrorists used it as their centre of fight.
The military is completely rebuilding it to re-initiate economic activity in the area wherein new shops and markets will be handed over to affected local tribes.
Earlier on arrival, COAS was received by Corps Commander Peshawar, Lieutenant General Hidayat Ur Rehman.
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