QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti extended New Year greetings to the nation on Monday, framing the coming year as the dawn of a transformative era focused on peace, prosperity, and public service for the province.
In an official message, CM Bugti stated that the new year offers a vital opportunity for “self-accountability, national unity, and joint struggle.” He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to placing public welfare at the forefront of its agenda, with specific emphasis on securing a bright future for the youth through enhanced focus on education, healthcare, and the creation of employment opportunities.
Reflecting on the past year, the Chief Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by Balochistan but highlighted that the province had nonetheless achieved significant developmental milestones. Looking ahead, he pledged that his administration would implement “more effective steps” in the new year to strengthen peace, public order, good governance, and transparency.
Bugti emphasized Balochistan’s pivotal role in Pakistan’s overall development, asserting that the province is laying the foundation for its own strength and stability. “By utilizing the resources and young talents of the province, the foundation of a strong, stable and prosperous Balochistan is being laid,” he said.
The Chief Minister concluded his message with a prayer, expressing hope that the new year would become a messenger of security, economic stability, and widespread prosperity for both the country and the nation. He prayed for Almighty Allah to keep Pakistan and Balochistan steadfast on the path of development and stability.
Meanwhile the New Year celebrations turned violent across Karachi on Thursday night as celebratory aerial firing resulted in at least 17 civilians, including women and children, being wounded by stray bullets.
Rescue services confirmed the casualties. “We have shifted 17 injured individuals from various neighborhoods to Jinnah Hospital and Abbas Shaheed Hospital for treatment,” said an official from Rescue 1122 Karachi.
In response to the illegal firing, Karachi police launched a city-wide crackdown. A police spokesperson stated that 16 individuals had been arrested in connection with aerial firing in areas including Korangi, Liaquatabad, and West Karachi. Furthermore, it was confirmed that nine of the total injured were victims of such firing.
