Authorities in Bajaur have started preparations for setting a camp to house displaced people ahead of a potential counter-terrorism operation in the area.

Several essential items including tents and mattresses were transported to the Bajaur Sports Complex early on Saturday. However, no operation has been announced by authorities so far.

On the other hand, a second meeting is set to take place between local leaders and Tehreek-e-Taliban militants in the area. As of 2 pm, jirga members had started gathering and were waiting to establish contact with the other side.

The first round of talks had taken place on Friday, where jirga members had put ahead two demands to the the TTP members: either return to Afghanistan from where they originally came or leave populated areas to fight in the open.

The TTP side had asked for an extension in the ceasefire until Saturday for consultations, after which a second round was scheduled.

Earlier in the week, a curfew had been imposed in 16 areas of Bajaur for an operation against militants. Several militants had been killed in the operation, although authorities did not officially release a number.