QUETTA: Balochistan’s Grand Alliance of government employees launched the second phase of its protest movement after authorities failed to accept its demands, union leaders said.
Government employees staged symbolic highway blockades for two hours in Khuzdar, Qila Saifullah, Panjgur, Dera Murad Jamali, Nushki and Lasbela. The action disrupted traffic and affected daily travel.
The Grand Alliance said it will continue protests in phases. Under the announced schedule, employees will block national highways on Jan. 13 in Kalat, Pishin, Loralai, Dalbandin, Turbat and Pasni. On Jan. 14, similar protests will take place in Dera Allah Yar, Hub, Kharan, Zhob, Gwadar, Chaman and Rakhni.
The alliance warned that it will impose a complete province-wide shutdown on Jan. 15 if the government fails to act. All government offices will remain closed during the lockdown.
Union leaders also announced an indefinite sit-in outside the Red Zone in Quetta on Jan. 20. Government employees from across the province will join the protest until their demands are approved.
The alliance’s key demand is the immediate grant of a 30 percent Disparity Reduction Allowance in line with federal pay scales. Other demands include halting privatization of public departments, reversing pension reforms, ending contract-based hiring and addressing administrative issues.
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The protests caused travel difficulties in several areas. Authorities said they are monitoring the situation.
The Grand Alliance warned it will expand protests further if talks fail to make progress.
