SHEWA, Wednesday, January 14, 2026 (WNP): An important bridge over the Kurram River in Shewa tehsil of North Waziristan was blown up early Wednesday after unknown attackers planted explosives beneath the structure, completely destroying it and cutting off critical land routes linking the area with Miranshah, Bannu and other adjoining regions.

According to local sources, a large quantity of explosives was detonated in the early morning hours, with the blast heard miles away, triggering fear and panic among residents of the surrounding areas.

The destruction of the bridge has once again raised serious concerns about the law and order situation in the volatile district.

Security forces and police swiftly reached the site following the explosion, cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the perpetrators and motives behind the attack. Authorities said evidence was being collected and all possible angles were being examined.

The destroyed bridge served as a vital artery for daily civilian movement, including patients seeking medical care, students commuting to educational institutions, traders transporting goods and government employees traveling for official duties. Its collapse has caused major disruption to routine life, restricting access to healthcare facilities, delaying the supply of essential commodities and hampering commercial activity.

Residents have been forced to use longer, more difficult alternative routes, compounding hardships in an area already grappling with years of insecurity and underdevelopment. Official sources said the bridge was primarily used by civilians and for relief operations, though security convoys also occasionally used the route.

Local elders, including tribal elder Malik Islam Khan, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “heinous and cowardly act” that primarily harms innocent civilians.

They called for immediate and strict action against those responsible and urged the authorities to restore connectivity without delay.

Local political leader Abdullah Khan also expressed grave concern, saying the people of North Waziristan had made immense sacrifices to restore peace, and such attacks were aimed at undermining those hard-won gains. He urged the government to further strengthen security and ensure the protection of critical infrastructure.

Authorities confirmed that a comprehensive investigation is underway, adding that a detailed report has been sent to senior officials regarding the reconstruction of the bridge and interim arrangements to ease the difficulties faced by the local population.