Pakistan lifts Swat valley curfew

The needs of civilians who have fled are overwhelming the authorities

Pakistan's army has temporarily lifted the curfew in large parts of the Swat valley, to allow civilians to flee the intense fighting against the Taleban.

The curfew is being suspended for eight hours, officials said.
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said the army would be successful in clearing the area of the militants, who have largely been controlling it.
The UN says more than 800,000 people are living in harsh conditions in camps for those displaced by the fighting.
A further influx is expected on Friday where the curfew is lifted in lifted in parts of the Swat valley from 0600 to 1400 (0100-0900GMT).
Mountain retreat
Up to 15,000 troops have now been deployed in the Swat valley and neighbouring areas to take on up to 5,000 militants.
A new front was opened earlier this week by troops airlifted by army helicopters to Peochar, which is about 65km (40 miles) north-west of Swat's main town of Mingora.
On Thursday UN High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres has warned that the plight of displaced people could spark further conflict.
"If you are not able to cope with the challenges posed by overwhelming displaced... this population will become a huge factor of de-stabilisation," Mr Guterres said after visiting a camp for people displaced by the fighting.
Pakistan's military says it has killed hundreds of militants so far.
Pakistan's government signed a peace agreement with the Swat Taleban in February, allowing Sharia law there, a move sharply criticised by Washington.
The militants then moved out into neighbouring districts, causing further alarm.