QUETTA: The Balochistan government has imposed a sweeping and indefinite suspension of all inter-city transport on a critical section of National Highway N-70, citing pressing security threats. The order, which came into immediate effect, halts all taxi services and private vehicle movement on the Loralai route until further notice, effectively severing a major transportation artery in the province.
The provincial Home Department issued the directive, pinpointing “security concerns and law-and-order considerations” as the primary reasons for the drastic measure. The move underscores the persistent volatility in the region and the government’s intent to preempt any potential incidents. The ban, however, includes a crucial exemption for local and intra-city traffic, allowing residents within Loralai and adjoining areas to continue their daily commutes and access essential services without disruption.
Authorities have swung into action to enforce the decision. All district administrations, police forces, and other relevant agencies have been instructed to ensure the immediate implementation of the travel ban. Furthermore, they have been directed to make alternative arrangements to mitigate the public inconvenience caused by the suspension of a major highway link.
In an official communique, the government has strongly advised citizens intending to travel through the region to consult the latest official travel advisory before embarking on their journeys. This, officials state, is to prevent any unnecessary hardship. While acknowledging the disruption, the government statement expressed appreciation for the public’s past cooperation and earnestly urged for its continued support, emphasizing that such measures are vital for the overarching goal of maintaining peace and stability across Balochistan. No specific date for the resumption of traffic has been announced.
Meanwhile the Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has directed authorities to implement stricter measures to prevent the illegal shipment of sugar outside the province, ensuring its stable supply and availability for local consumers.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister on Wednesday to review the supply and demand dynamics of sugar in Balochistan. The meeting was attended by key officials, including Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Secretary Industries Muhammad Khalid Sarpara, and Director General Industries Zulfiqar Shah.
