Balochistan traders, transporters form joint body over worsening security situation

QUETTA: Business leaders, transporters, traders, mine owners and other stakeholders in Balochistan have voiced concern over what they described as a worsening law and order situation, including the torching of goods vehicles and growing difficulties in trade and transportation, and have agreed to set up a joint committee to raise the matter with top authorities.

The decision was taken at a consultative meeting chaired by Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Haji Muhammad Ayub Mariani. Representatives of different associations and unions attended the gathering and unanimously backed the creation of a joint committee bringing together all stakeholders to address the issues and engage with the government.

Committee to take up issues with government

Participants at the meeting warned that if prompt steps were not taken to compensate affected traders for their losses and to provide protection, they could be compelled to begin protests. The proposed committee is intended to represent all concerned sectors as they pursue the matter with the authorities.

Speaking at the meeting, Mariani said he had already raised the issue with the prime minister, including road closures and incidents in which transport vehicles were set on fire in Balochistan. He said the prime minister had assured him that a high-powered delegation would be sent to address the situation.

Highways reopening to be initial focus

Mariani said the immediate priority would be to secure the reopening of highways, while any further response would be decided collectively if conditions failed to improve. He said the issue affected the whole province and that all stakeholders would be represented in the new body.

At the meeting, he also said the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry would fully support the committee’s efforts.

“This issue concerns the entire province; therefore, all stakeholders will be given representation in the committee,” Mariani said.