Pakistan military started massive operation against Taliban militants on May 7, 2009. The operation is being undertaken in Swat, Lower and Upper Dir, Bunner, Malakund and other adjacent areas where Taliban had taken over in contravention with the agreement with the government of NWFP, to lay their arms down, accept the writ of the State and immediately stop heinous human-rights violations.

The operation has triggered the biggest displacement in the history of Pakistan.  In this operation, heavy weapons are being used from both sides. The casualties are very high, of citizens mostly who are left behind and are hostage of Taliban. More than 1000 were reported as killed on May 12, 2009. Media and NGOs are not allowed to move in due to the volatile situation. According to the NWFP government and the independent sources, including UNHCR, between 1 and 1.3 million people have already moved from their homes and settled at Swabi, Charsadda, Peshawar, Mardan, etc. Mardan, Sawabi and Jalala, Talash and some parts of Timergra are so far safer places to live. The numbers of IDPs however are swelling day by day. Most of the people fled from the affected areas via Ambela-Sawabai Road, Dagar-Mardan Road, Jowar-Daragi Road (via Bazdara and Girarai). According to the local sources, 60% population of the affected areas has left villages. The remaining population is facing shortage of food, water and health facilities.

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