PESHAWAR:Commissioner Kohat Division Pervez Khan Sabat Khel has sternly directed the authorities concerned to intensify action against illegal encroachments, address prisoners’ grievances and strengthen public safety, emphasizing the rule of law, institutional coordination and improved public services as key administrative priorities.
The Commissioner, accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Kohat Muhammad Nawaz Wazir, inspected an anti-encroachment operation in Bahzadi Chakarkot on Monday.
He directed the authorities to take indiscriminate action against illegal occupation of government land, roads, footpaths and public passageways across the division’s five districts Kohat, Hangu, Karak, Orakzai and Kurram.
He stressed that enforcement must remain impartial and free from external pressure, with effective monitoring to prevent encroachments from reappearing after their removal.
During the visit, the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner also held an Open Court (Kuli Katchery) at Kohat District Jail, where prisoners presented their grievances.
The Commissioner assured them that their concerns would be addressed in accordance with the law, describing prisons as institutions not only for punishment but also for rehabilitation, character development and reintegration into society.
He announced that another open court would be arranged with representatives of the police and judiciary to facilitate the lawful resolution of issues relating to minor cases.
He also pledged to take up the provision of a dedicated electricity feeder for the jail with higher authorities to address persistent power outages and assured steps to improve security arrangements.
The Commissioner subsequently inspected the jail’s virtual courtroom, skills development centre, computer literacy centre and drug rehabilitation centre to assess facilities intended to improve prisoners’ access to legal proceedings, vocational training, digital education and rehabilitation services.
Separately, Sabat Khel and the Deputy Commissioner inspected a shop affected by a fire in Charsi Bazaar, Kohat and praised Rescue 1122 and other relevant departments for their timely response.
He said prompt action and effective coordination among emergency services helped reduce the risk of the fire spreading and causing greater damage.
The Commissioner reiterated the administration’s commitment to removing illegal encroachments, improving prison conditions, resolving public grievances and ensuring the protection of lives and property through effective coordination among government departments across Kohat Division.