GHALANAI: The Mohmand sports and cultural festival concluded with the Pakistan Day function here the other day.

The political administration arranged the festival with the help of Fata Secretariat to provide opportunities of healthy activities to the youth in the militancy-hit agency. It was organised in all the eight tehsils of Mohmand Agency, reflecting restoration of complete peace in the tribal territory.

A student, Akhtar Khan, told Dawn that it was a positive effort and clear message for masses that life in the militancyhit areas had returned to normalcy after the elimination of miscreants.

`Such sports events should be regularly organised throughout the year in the area to promote healthy activities among the youth of the area` he said. Pakistan Day was observed after seven years in the Pak-Afghan border areas of Bahi Daag, Shandara and Mamad Gat FC camp. The main function was held in the agency headquarters, Ghalanal. Political agent Waqar Ali Khan and Commandant Mohmand Rifles Col Umar Haider Bukhari attended the flag hoisting ceremony.

A motorcycle rally was also organised by Khwezai Peace Committee with the collaboration of the security forces from Bahi Daag to Atta Bazaar. Major events were held in Ghalanai Sports Complex that included weightlifting, moustache competition, kabaddi, tug-of-war, badminton, cattle show, dog race, gymnastics, marathon, cycle race, donkey cart race, football, volleyball, cricket ad other games.

In the 8km marathon race, Sabeehullah of Haleemzai covered the distance in 15 minutes from Ghaiba checkpost to the sports complex. Kamran Khan of Khwezai tehsil got first position in the 8km cycle race, covering the distance in eight minutes. Said Wali won the 8km donkey cart race.

Speech, national songs, Na`at and Qirat competitions were also held in all the tehsils. Mohmand PA and Mohmand Rifles commandant distributed certificates and prizes among the position holders.