Chrah residents rally against Pinstech

Residents of Union Council Chrah on Wednesday rallied against illicit encroachment of Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (Pinstech) and ban on construction in 2-km area around the institute premises.
In the late 50s, when Pakistan embarked on nuclear programme, two major constraints were immediately faced: the dearth of appropriately trained manpower and the absence of even rudiments of a viable scientific and industrial infrastructure.
The solution to these problems was found in the establishment of research, development and training centers. The first major step in this direction was the establishment of Pakistan institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (Pinstech), at Nilore, near Islamabad.
Construction of the institute proceeded in two phases. In the first phase, reactor building and ancillary facilities were completed. The second stage, encompassed various laboratories, workshop, library and auditorium, became operational in 1974.
Raja Safeer, representing the native community affected by the decision taken by the Pinstech said this is fourth time they have been asked to evict the area by enforcing 1903 Act. We are not being offered any compensation but have been asked to leave the area, he added.
He said that a ban has been imposed on new construction in four nearby. On the other hand, this ban has nothing to do with a private housing colony named Alhamra.
Earlier, considering the national interest we did not oppose and vacated the area. A fresh notification by the DG, Pinstech, envisages eviction of 2-km area around the institute, he added.
He said that dues regarding previous purchase of land by the institute have not been paid to the people. In this regard, Supreme Court passed its judgement for the payment but the decision still awaits implementation.
He said that the people in the vicinity of the institute have been displaced many times in the past. But, we will resist any fresh move in this regard, he said. The protesting villagers were chanting slogans against Lieutenant General Khalid Kidwai (Retd), DG, Pinstech. They also demanded for the payment due by the institute according to the recent market rates.