Kohat tunnel not repaired since 2008

The National Accountability Bureau, on Wednesday, submitted its preliminary report into Kohat tunnel, where lighting and exhaust systems had not been repaired since a vehicle-borne suicide attack on August 29, 2008 damaged it. Due to the malfunctioning of the exhaust system passengers using the tunnel risked health hazards, since carbon monoxide stayed inside the almost two-kilometre-long tunnel, built with the cooperation of Japan. Peshawar High Court Chief Justice Dost Muhammad Khan took suo motu action against the authorities for not repairing the damaged tunnel in the last four years and blaming the attack on Taliban militants. The NAB provided necessary details regarding the tunnel, including its daily revenue through toll tax, as an estimated 20,000 vehicles used it on daily basis. A representative from the company managing the tunnel told the court that both lighting and exhaust systems would be installed by September 15. On this assurance, the court adjourned the hearing till September 18. Chief Justice Dost Muhammad Khan said, "It is unfortunate that no amount is kept for the maintenance of the tunnel while it is earning Rs 2.5 million a day."