Category: OPINION

By Zain Ud Din Ahmed

Abdullah, a resident of Punjab’s Multan district, has permanently moved back to his hometown, leaving behind the barber shop he had been running in Quetta for the past ten years. Abdullah stated that due to his work, he had to frequently travel between Balochistan and Punjab every few months. However, the increasing incidents of targeted killings of passengers from Punjab on Balochistan’s highways instilled fear in him. According to him, traveling on these roads now feels like putting one’s life at stake.

The rise in militancy, lawlessness, robberies, and frequent protests in Balochistan has severely impacted public mobility on highways. Passengers feel unsafe, and transporters are being forced to shut down their businesses. Government measures have proven insufficient in addressing these concerns. Under such circumstances, traveling on Balochistan’s highways has become a challenge not just for outsiders but also for locals.
Quetta resident Azhar Khan, whose son is ill, shared his ordeal. Due to the lack of quality medical facilities in Quetta, he is forced to take his son to Karachi for treatment. “I need to take him for check-ups every month, but for the past month, we haven’t been able to travel. Sometimes protests block the roads, sometimes armed groups take control, forcing the government to shut down highways and stop traffic,” he said. Even when roads are open, securing a doctor’s appointment or getting time off from work becomes another hurdle.
Azhar Khan noted that whenever someone in Balochistan plans a journey, their mind is filled with worries and uncertainties because every day, something alarming happens on the roads.
Balochistan’s highways have become increasingly dangerous, with looming threats at every turn and fears yet unfounded. Since January 2024, there have been more than half a dozen attacks on major national highways, including:
• N-65: Connecting Balochistan to Sukkur
• N-70: Connecting Balochistan to Punjab
• N-50: Connecting Balochistan to KP and Punjab via Dera Ismail Khan
• N-25: Connecting Quetta to Karachi
• N-40: Connecting Quetta to Taftan
More than 50 passengers have been killed in these incidents, and dozens of vehicles have been torched by militants. Many victims were from Punjab, who were pulled off buses and executed after their identity cards were checked.
In August 2024, militants stopped a bus on the N-70 highway near Rarah Sham, Musakhail, killing 23 passengers from Punjab. Last week, seven more passengers were shot dead in Barkhan’s Rarkan area.
This week, militants blocked the N-65 highway in Bolan’s Pir Ghaib, Ab Gum, and Bibi Nani areas for over five hours. Thousands of people returning from a religious gathering were stranded. Two bystanders from Quetta were killed, and four were injured in crossfire between militants and security forces. The attackers even intercepted the vehicle of ruling PPP MPA and Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, Liaqat Lehri, and snatched weapons from his guards. A video of the incident went viral on social media.

The government is facing intense criticism over the deteriorating security situation, with opposition leader Umar Ayub and other political figures questioning its failure to maintain order.
Following these incidents, many citizens—especially at night—fear traveling on highways. All Balochistan Bus Transport Unions’ spokesperson Nasir Shahwani said that while conditions were already bad, the situation has become even more alarming under the new government.

“Highways have become completely unsafe. Every day, either robbers loot buses, or militants descend from the mountains, stopping vehicles and killing passengers at will,” he said.

Shahwani noted that travelers from Punjab, Sindh, and other provinces have stopped coming to Balochistan, and even locals avoid traveling.
“Previously, around 200 buses operated daily on the Karachi route. Now, the number has dropped to less than 100, and even those struggle to fill seats,” he added.
Government’s Security Measures Have Failed
The Balochistan government has announced various security measures, but none have yielded significant results.
In April 2024, after a deadly attack in Nushki, the government banned night travel for buses heading to Punjab and other provinces and mandated armed security guards on board. However, these regulations were never properly enforced.
Balochistan’s Home Department states that 27 Joint Response Centers have been set up on major highways, manned by police, Levies, and FC personnel. Additionally, a Coastal Highway Police force was created in Makran. These measures were meant to respond swiftly to road blockades by banned militant groups, but recent events raise serious doubts about their effectiveness.
Once again, the government is re-evaluating its security strategy. Transport Secretary Hayat Kakar stated that a joint security plan is being developed in collaboration with the Home Department, security agencies, and transporters.
“We are trying to schedule bus departures during the day. However, transporters have their concerns,” he said.
The owner of Balochistan’s largest transport company, Haji Daulat Lehri, explained that around 300 buses operate daily between Punjab and Balochistan. The government wants all buses to depart from Quetta between 7 AM and 12 PM to ensure they travel through Balochistan during daylight hours. However, this is not practical.
“Each major company runs a bus every hour from morning until 10 PM. You cannot make all buses depart at the same time. Balochistan’s highways are single-lane roads, packed with motorcycles and donkey carts. Daytime traffic congestion would significantly increase travel time and accident risks,” he explained.
Lehri suggested nighttime convoys with security escorts or checkpoints focused solely on maintaining security as alternative measures.

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind stated that securing national highways is a government responsibility, but the vast geographical area poses a major challenge.
“Balochistan is half the size of Pakistan, yet it has very few motorway police officers. We need a dedicated Motorway Police presence on national highways, and we have already requested the Prime Minister for this,” Rind said.
A comprehensive security plan is under development, but its implementation will take time. The provincial government has also requested additional resources from the federal government to support security forces stationed along the highways.
Meanwhile, authorities argue that transporters are not cooperating. According to Dera Ismail Khan Police, an ongoing operation against militants means night travel for Balochistan-bound buses should be restricted. The Balochistan government has formally informed transporters, but they refuse to comply.
Experts believe militants are gaining strength, increasing their capability to carry out attacks. Even security forces have been targeted while traveling.
In January 2024, militants attacked a security personnel bus in Turbat, and in February 2024, 25 security officials were killed in Kalat while enroute to Karachi.
Additionally, robberies and frequent roadblocks due to protests have made traveling a nightmare. Quetta-Karachi Highway alone has been blocked over 10 times in the past month, sometimes for three to four days straight.
The government has imposed Section 144 to prevent road protests, but enforcement remains weak. Until effective security measures are implemented, Balochistan’s highways will continue to pose grave risks for passengers and transporters alike. The author is a seasoned journalist based in Quetta, he has dedicated the past fifteen years to the field of journalism. Currently reporting for Urdu News Saudi Arabia, he covers a wide range of topics, including current affairs, militancy, and social issues.

By Kamran Raja

A former commander of the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has revealed details about the organization armed terrorist separatist campaign. According to the former commander, Najibullah, who spent 19 years with the BLA and with the foreign agencies have been supporting Baloch separatists.

Najibullah’s disclosure comes as a significant development in the context of Balochistan’s liberation movement. The BLA has been leading the fight for so called rights of Baloch people by balochistan independence, employing various tactics, including Fidayee attacks, abductions, and targeted strikes against Chinese interests.

The BLA’s attackst likely on the 2018 attack on Chinese engineers in Dalbandin and the 2022 suicide bombing targeting Chinese interests in Karachi.

Najibullah’s renunciation of violence and expose of foreign agencies support for Baloch separatists may have significant implications for the region politics and will affect the ongoing liberation movement.

Najeebullah, also known as Darwish, revealed the details about the Baloch Liberation Army’s (BLA) armed separatist organisation at a press conference and beside him Abdul Rasheed, alias Khuda-i-Dad also called Kamash, surrendered in Quetta, Balochistan. They renounced violence and announced their decision to join mainstream politics, seeking to wage a peaceful struggle for rights of Balochistan people  within the bounds of Pakistan’s Constitution.

Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi Senior Minister for Planning and Development, Adviser to Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs Mina Majeed Baloch, and DIG Quetta and CTD Chief Aitezaz Ahmed Goraya attended this press conference where Najeebullah and Abdul Rasheed revealed the truth.

Najeebullah, the former commander of the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), spoke during the press conference about his involvement with the outlawed group and the Baloch Liberation Front. He shared how and why he initially joined hands with these organizations, shedding light on the motivations behind his actions.

Najeebullah’s decision to join the BLA and BLF was likely driven by the groups goals of seeking So called balochistan independence and rights for Balochistan people from Pakistan. The BLA, in particular, has been advocating for Baloch self-determination and separation from Pakistan since its inception in 2000.

However, Najeebullah also spoke about the reasons behind his change of heart, which led him to surrender along with his associate. This significant development may indicate a shift in the dynamics of the Baloch separatist movement and will lead towards a betterment of balochistan development.

It’s worth noting that the BLA has been designated as a banned terrorist organization by Pakistan, China, Iran, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union. The group has been involved in various attacks, including those targeting Chinese nationals and security personnel in Balochistan.

Najeebullah’s statements suggest that the terrorist organisation BLA Ideology and actions were influenced by external forces, which is a serious concern for regional stability. The BLA has been involved in a violent insurgency in Balochistan, targeting Pakistani security forces and Chinese interests, particularly those related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

It’s worth noting that the BLA has been linked to other militant groups, including the Balochistan Liberation Front, with which it has reportedly been in talks to merge and form a unified militant group. However, Najeebullah decision to quit the BLA and join the mainstream indicates a growing trend of disillusionment among some Baloch militants with the ideology and tactics of these groups.

Najeebullah, the former BLA commander, also revealed that the terrorist organization BLA provided two types of training physical training, Focused on weapons handling and physical exercises, similar to military training and Mental training, Aimed at brainwashing recruits, making them more receptive to the organization’s ideology.

However, after 19 years with the outlawed BLA, Najeebullah decided to quit and surrender to the government, citing his disillusionment with the BLA reality.  Najeebullah, has spoken out about his experiences he revealed that he was brainwashed into plotting against Pakistan at a young age, between 14 to 15 years old, due to his lack of education.

During his time with the BLA and another separatist group, the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), Najeebullah’s goal was to secede from Pakistan and oppose the state.

Najeebullah’s story highlights the vulnerabilities of young, uneducated individuals who can be easily manipulated by extremist groups. His decision to quit the BLA and surrender to the government marks a significant turning point in his life, as he now seeks to join mainstream politics and advocate for Baloch rights through peaceful means.

Najeebullah also revealed that he had been in contact with foreign intelligence agencies, but surprisingly, they showed little interest in supporting Baloch independence. This statement suggests that the foreign agencies goals may have been more focused on exploiting the region’s resources for proxy purposes, rather than genuinely supporting the Baloch people’s struggle for self-determination.

Najeebullah’s criticism of Baloch extremism group leaders living luxurious lives abroad while their militants struggle to survive is a scathing indictment. He pointed out that most BLA group leaders reside outside Pakistan, enjoying comfortable lives, whereas the foot soldiers in Balochistan face extreme hardship, often without basic necessities like food.

This criticism echoes concerns about the disconnect between the leadership and the rank-and-file members of these groups. It also raises questions about the motivations and priorities of those leading the separatist movement. Are they truly fighting for the rights and welfare of the Baloch people, or are they more interested in maintaining their own power and privilege.

Najeebullah’s words serve as a warning to his former comrades, urging them to reconsider their involvement in attempts to destabilize the state. He emphasizes the importance of living a peaceful life, rather than being part of a proxy war. Notably, he mentions that many young people, currently involved with terrorist separatist groups, are eager to disassociate themselves from these organizations.

This development underscores the complexities of the Baloch Extremism separatist movement, which has been driven by a range of factors, including economic grievances, political marginalization, and human rights abuses.

By Abdul Hai Aryan

In recent years, the tourism sector has become a significant driver of economic growth in Pakistan, contributing not only to foreign exchange earnings but also creating jobs and fostering local development. As countries around the world recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism has emerged as a key sector in many economies, and Pakistan is no exception.
In 2023, Pakistan saw an uptick in foreign tourism, with international visitors contributing a noteworthy $1.3 billion in foreign exchange revenue. While this figure may seem modest compared to global tourism giants like the United States or China, it represents a vital step forward for a country long dependent on other sectors for economic stability. With neighboring destinations like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Dubai making headlines for their booming tourism industries, Pakistan has begun to harness its own unique potential to attract international visitors.
The statistics from other regions offer a stark reminder of what’s possible when a nation prioritizes tourism. Saudi Arabia’s remarkable achievement of welcoming 60 million tourists in the first half of 2024, or Egypt surpassing its previous records with over 7 million visitors, highlight the potential that lies in tourism as a revenue generator. These successes underline the need for Pakistan to further invest in its tourism infrastructure, enhance its international marketing campaigns, and create a more welcoming environment for foreign visitors.
Tourism brings in not just foreign exchange but also boosts related industries, from hospitality to transport and retail.
As international tourist spending in Europe surged by 14.3% in 2024, Pakistan stands to gain by capitalizing on its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical sites. With the right policies and investments, Pakistan can position itself as a must-visit destination for both regional and global tourists.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s tourism sector holds great promise. With consistent growth in foreign tourist arrivals and the potential to attract much more, it is time for the country to recognize tourism not just as an economic contributor but as a key pillar for future growth.

Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani.

Founded in 1954 under the name China Cultural Foreign Relations Association, the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) is marking its seventeenth year, advancing global cooperation through the bonds of friendship. Despite these modifications, CPAFFC still upholds its primary goal of promoting Global Development Friendship through facilitating cultural exchange and promoting diplomatic dialogue. China believes in prioritizing the collective welfare over individual country interests to achieve worldwide success and urging nations to come together for a shared objective, aiming to attain global prosperity and peace through collaboration rather than rivalry. By consistently upholding these beliefs, the CPAFC plays a crucial role in China’s global integration and represents its long-standing dedication to a more interconnected and fairer world.
This anniversary isn’t pretty much celebrating past successes; it’s a name to action for the destiny. President Xi Jinping’s imaginative and prescient of a “network with a shared future for mankind” taking shape. In Beijing, celebrations marked China’s progress in successful diplomacy.
Chinese concept of a “shared future for humanity” goes beyond just being an ideological notion – it urges all countries to set aside their differences and prioritize the overall welfare of everyone. It supports a fresh worldwide solidarity that goes beyond political and economic agendas. The progress of humanity relies on the progress of every nation.
China’s long-standing foreign policy of appeasement and non-interference reflects that peace is largely a political necessity and a moral conviction. China’s development policy is primarily based on five standards of peaceful coexistence, serving as a supply of notion for international locations around the sector. It is essential to emphasize that China’s foreign policy is based totally on principles such as mutual recognize for sovereignty, non-violence, self-reliance, equality and non-violent coexistence. These ideas have enabled China to establish sturdy and cooperative relations with nations round the arena.
The seventieth anniversary also provide a moment to mirror at the significance of intercultural exchange. For China, variety isn’t always a source of division but a source of possibility. The concept of “concord without uniformity” is deeply embedded in Chinese philosophy and reflects the perception that diversity is the middle of human civilization. In today’s globalized world, this idea is greater relevant than ever. It’s essential to foster expertise, promote appreciate, and encourage the peaceful coexistence of various cultures.
In a technology ruled by virtual technologies, go-cultural communique has emerge as each less difficult and extra complicated. China’s ongoing efforts to engage with different international locations—whether or not thru government diplomacy or civil society exchanges—are important for fostering global peace and mutual know-how. Initiatives like the Confucius Institutes, which teach Chinese language and lifestyle, and China’s energetic participation in worldwide cultural exchanges, show off its dedication to human beings-to-people diplomacy.
Central to the CPAFFC’s undertaking is the perception that international relations need to move past governments and contain everyday humans. As President Xi Jinping has emphasized, “The human beings are the creators of history.” It is those human connections—whether thru educational exchanges, commercial enterprise collaborations, or network partnerships—that power actual trade. People-to-people international relations has accordingly emerged as a key awareness of China’s foreign policy in recent years.
The seventieth anniversary celebration underscored the significance of strengthening ties between China and the world. Programs along with sister cities, youngsters’ exchanges, and academic partnerships help construct these relationships. For example, the sister town community enables neighborhood governments to collaborate on a wide variety of issues—from city planning to environmental safety, cultural exchange, and education. These neighborhood-stage connections are often the inspiration for broader national cooperation.
The anniversary additionally highlighted the significance of enticing more youthful generations in worldwide international relations. The CPAFFC’s ongoing efforts to increase teens applications and global exchanges ensure that mutual know-how and friendship will keep growing in the coming decades.
At a time of rising geopolitical tensions and protectionism, China’s method to international relations remains rooted in openness and inclusivity. Unlike different countries that are trying to find to impose their very own fashions, China respects the right of all international locations to determine their own paths to improvement.
In practice, this means jointly tackling shared challenges—climate change, poverty, inequality, and conflict. It means providing development assistance without conditions normally imposed by other powers. For instance, BRI does not prioritize asserting Chinese sovereignty but rather emphasizes forming mutually beneficial partnerships among all parties.
Amidst global challenges such as climate change, political instability, and economic inequality, the 75 years at the CPAFFC serve as a testament to the importance of friendship in international relations. In a time of frequent conflict and rivalry, the importance of human connection is crucial. An example is the Chinese saying, “True and honest communication results in long-lasting friendships.”
China’s dedication to cultivating this profound and significant bond has influenced its foreign policy for the last 70 years – and will have a lasting impact for years to come. The idea of a “society for the shared future of mankind” is not a dreamy vision, but a realistic blueprint for global interactions to come. By collaborating, nations can address current issues and establish a future founded on peace, advancement, and mutual regard. Looking ahead to the next 70 years, CPAFFC’s ethos of camaraderie and unity will keep motivating individuals globally. China’s contribution to promoting global connections – through culture, education, trade, and diplomacy – will be vital in building a fair, prosperous, and peaceful world for everyone.
(The author is Secretary-General Pakistan-China Friendship Association Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province & was member of APCFA delegation to Conference His email syeed.gilani@gmail.com)Ends.

By Abdullah Khan

The Health Services Academy (HSA), a Public Health University in Islamabad, organized the 14th International Public Health Conference, 2024, in collaboration with Pathfinder International and other partners, on November 5-6. Titled: ‘Transforming Research into Action: Redefining Public Health through Social and Behavior Change, the Conference was graced by Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani—the Acting President of Pakistan and Chairman Senate, as the Chief Guest at the Inaugural Session. Dr. Shahzad Ali coordinated the conference and among other key note speakers, I was honoured to shed light on the topic: ‘Empowering Choices: An Overview of Social and Behavioral Change for Family Planning in Balochistan’. During the conference, I also had the opportunity to share my views in the Scientific Session that followed Inaugural Session. The key policy related areas that I tried to cover included aspects of better service delivery and their subsequent outcomes.
It is significant to note here that Social and Behavioral Change (SBC) is an essential component in achieving the health and family planning commitments of Pakistan, and the Global Development Goals, in specific Goal 3: ‘Good Health and Wellbeing.’ It can be defined as deep understanding of human and societal behavior to increase adoption of healthy behaviors and influencing social norms that reinforce those behaviors. Studies show that there are three key reasons why SBC is an essential component of any public health and family planning program: first, SBC is rooted in global evidence and the best practices that have exhibited increase in health and family planning services and better outcomes; second, SBC complements services delivery components fostering multiple positive outcomes; third, it demonstrates high return on investment.
When it comes to Baluchistan, the province requires a strategy that is different from other provinces. 44% of the overall landmass of Pakistan, and stretching on 347,190 sq kms, Baluchistan is the least populated province with a density of 12 persons per km². Poor infrastructure, fragile law and order and rampant poverty—71% as per the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), raise serious concerns for the public policy makers. Nevertheless, the poor development indicators, and the small population in proportion to the land mass on the one hand, and the country’s resource distribution, mainly on population basis under the National Finance Commission (NFC), allocation of seats in the National Assembly and Senate, on the other hand, have contributed to the nurturing of a particular mindset among the political leadership and policy makers to view Balochistan’s fewer headcount a demerit. The NFC formula and allocation of seats in the parliament on solely population basis are a forceful disincentive for the cause of family planning and population control in Balochistan’s context. This is a major challenge for the Department of Population Welfare Balochistan to change behavior at the top. Moreover, at the individual and community level, there are generic issues of unacceptability, accessibility and gap between demand and supply that have always undermined family planning program.
This problem analysis in view, the PWD Balochistan is adopting a holistic approach using the Socio-Ecological Model for Change which is a framework for understanding and addressing complex issues like family planning and reproductive health. It examines how different levels of influences—ranging from individual to policy—interact and shape behaviors, norms, and access to resources.
Adopted primarily to target political leadership and policymakers is the Top-Down Approach to convince them through SBC techniques that the existing high population growth of about 3.2% is straining the resources, in specific the water resource, given Balochistan’s severe water scarcity. Moreover, the leadership is being sensitized that Family Planning does not mean to have two children, rather it aims at developing healthy human resource for overall economic growth and development. The new population narrative, Tawazun (Balance), which is in harmony with the rights-based approach of voluntarily planning and the Islamic ethos of moderation is a very feasible SBC tool to change the leadership approach towards family planning. This narrative has already been approved and adopted by federal and provincial governments and civil society organizations.
Similarly, the communities are being targeted by engaging Ulema, tribal leaders and other influencers to change thinking patterns, approaches and behavior towards family planning and reproductive health as without it, the Maternal Newborn, Child Health, Adolescent Health, Nutrition and other health indicators cannot be improved. The third layer is the Individual, who, under the framework, is being targeted through the doctors, social organizers, LHWs, Family Welfare Workers, Family Welfare Councilors, Community Based Family Planning Workers, and teachers.
The above three levels function in symbiosis, closely interacting with and supporting one another. For example, norms and attitudes shaped by personal relationships can influence community-level support or resistance. And community norms and available resources can impact interpersonal relationships and individual choices; thus, putting impact on the political leadership and policy makers to guide and steer right policy decisions to incorporate Family Planning into the overall Health Framework, with due resource allocation.
In this way, the SBC will have impact on individuals that affects the family and peer networks, leading to community, and at the top is the social and structural fabric that includes leadership, policy makers, which can be helpful in mobilizing resources through better public policy guidelines, and above all, the overall social and religious values which will change for positive and sustainable development.__ The writher is Public Policy Practitioner Secretary Population, Balochistan

By Hamza Munawar

In today’s competitive world where manufacturing industries in neighbouring countries, China, India, Bangladesh are on the rise where the industry is not only meeting the local demands, but also contributing to the country economy by either exporting the surplus production or being suppliers to the leading global brands.

Now this is time Pakistan also needs to recognize its potential of being a major supplier to businesses around the world, which will not only increase the employment but also boost the country economy. In this article we will focus on the role of strategic supply chain management in manufacturing industry of Pakistan.

Pakistan’s private sector manufacturing companies must recognize the importance of strategic supply chain management for driving growth, efficiency, and competitiveness. As the country needs economic growth, supply chain optimization can become a key differentiator for it.

As per the government finance division report manufacturing industry in Pakistan contributes 12.79% to the country’s total GDP and employs 16.1% of country’s labor force. These numbers are good but for the industry to thrive and for a significant boost in economy these numbers must be improved but this is not easy as many inefficiencies threaten progress, so it requires strategic supply chain planning and execution for effective management, to stay competitive, reduce costs, and boost productivity.

Currently the country’s manufacturing sector is facing many challenges, including Infrastructure deficiencies such as Poor roads and lack of coordination, energy shortages, increasing prices of fuel and electricity, intense global competition, poor handling mechanism of temperature sensitive items, supply chain visibility gap such as lack of real time tracking and monitoring systems, inefficient logistics and lack of quality control

These challenges can be eliminated or at least minimized by strategic supply chain practices such as, enhanced forecasting and demand planning by using accurate data and latest technology such as machine learning for accurate predictions, by Inventory optimization to eliminate waste by implementing principles such as JIT (Just in time), Logistics optimization which includes implementing transportation management systems, real time tracking and route optimization, improving supply chain visibility by using technologies such as RFID, ERP, CRM and blockchain technology for transparency and real time tracking and by developing supply chain talent by building skills and expertise through trainings.

Pakistan’s manufacturing sector holds immense potential not only for industry’s own growth and profitability, but it can also greatly contribute towards government plan of reviving the economy, it can be done by adopting strategic supply chain practices, using latest technologies, and by developing supply chain expertise, manufacturers can achieve efficiency gains, drive competitiveness and reduce costs. Implementing strategic supply chain excellence will enable Pakistani manufacturers to thrive in the global market. Student of Bahria University, Islamabad.

By Abdul Shakoor Khan

When violent protests erupted in some parts of Balochistan in 2006, many of the youth people used to perceive that government policies in the province could prove to be counter-productive, fuelling the wrath of misguided youngsters.

Unfortunately, they were kept aloof of mainstream and often swayed by perennial vested rhetoric of traditional politicians about willfully depriving them of their rights, a perception that deeply entrenched into their minds and gradually turned into hatred.

Aslam Baloch, a passionate student of Balochistan University’s Mass Communication department before getting the government job, had same views about the government policies and showed no remorse on damages caused by angry youth during violent demonstration in 2006, after the death of late Nawab Akbar Bugti.

“Charged youth had a solid reason to burn the government installations” was his notion about the sorry state of affairs during discussion with university fellows, very next day of vandalism.

Aslam, hailing from the suburbs of Quetta, and a die-hard worker of a political party remained in the party influence until his pathetic period of joblessness ended after finally getting a job.

“I wasted my time in politics of hate and violence. But, now I find no reason to pursue my past life,” said Aslam soon after his return from Islamabad, after spending two years in job.

A hundred and eighty-degree turn was just because he was financially empowered that relieved him from the fear of livelihood.

The story of Aslam is a clear source of insight that how youth become a soft target for saboteurs when they are unemployed and live in fear. But, on the contrary, they are a potential asset for the country if provided social and economic development opportunities.

“Baloch youth need immediate attention of the government,” said Information Officer, Saeed Yusuf, commenting on prevailing situation in the province. “We need to engage them in constructive activities and development programs before that they are swayed by lethal social media onslaught.”

Since Balochistan is experiencing unrest and a victim to the agenda of our enemies, it is high time to hammer out reasons resulting in their deprivation.

“Our youth are our future. They are large portion of our population and we need to engage them in constructive activities,” pleaded the youngest MNA from Balochistan, Nawabzada Jamal Raisani. “Their role is critical, particularly in the progress of Balochistan and Pakistan as a whole.”

Raisani said ignoring the aspirations of youth creates space for anti-state elements to misguide them. “However, creating platforms for them to express themselves and contribute meaningfully to nation building would be a better way forward.”

Cognizant of the situation, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti led provincial government is striving hard to engage youth in different social and economic activities and save them from falling prey to miscreants influence.

For the first time in province’s history, Youth Policy 2024 is being implemented with opportunities for youth in education, sports and employment that reflects the government’s intention to foster a constructive environment for youth.

The Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Program had also been launched in Balochistan to provide youth educational scholarships from primary to higher levels. Besides, the PhD students would be given full scholarships to study at top 200 universities worldwide. In a landmark development, the Oxford University has also agreed to provide scholarships to Balochistan students.

Sports is also no more a neglected area, after immense appreciation of Balochistan based international athletes Shahzaib Rind, Mohammad Wasim and others who were awarded handsome prize money. President Asif Ali Zardari also gave away cash prize of Rs 100 million to Shahzaib Rind to encourage Balochistan youth.

Balochistan Minister for Planning and Development, Zahoor Buledi said the government by implementing its agenda, is providing resources to harness youth potential. “Efforts are on to compile data and devise youth friendly policies, bringing them to mainstream.”

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind has also mentioned to various programs to empower jobless youth including small loans valuing Rs two billion for graduated individuals on easy installments to establish livestock farms and businesses in agriculture, manufacturing and services sectors.

“Launch of the Chief Minister Youth Skills Development Program is another initiative to train 30,000 young individuals in various skills,” he said. “The government has so far provided scholarships to 75,000 students under its pro-education policy and increased allocation for Balochsitan Education Endowment Fund by Rs two billion in 2024-25 budget besides Rs two billion for out of school children.”

President Quetta Press Club, Abdul Khaliq Rind also pleaded to provide youth quality education as well as economic opportunities to engage them in constructive activities. “Our politicians must have to change their strategies and invest in youth to save our future generations.”

Recalling record sale of some 4.7 million books at festivals in Gwadar and Panjgur districts, Abdul Khaliq said, the government should also focus bibliophiles in Balochistan. “Organizing Pakistan Literature Festival was a good omen and we should continue with such activities.”

He praised Balochistan government for paying attention to young people with hopes that these initiatives would bear fruit and Balochistan youth would transform themselves into a constructive society and play their role in building a strong, prosperous and peaceful Pakistan.

By Mohammad Hamza Shafqaat.

A war like any other has started, with two sides at play, and what stands at the crossroads is the capital of Balochistan. In this war, one side stands on the right while the other continues pursuing wrong group-centric interests and agendas. People are being fed fake news and false narratives while yellow journalism thrives on sensational, spicy news. Political representatives are being enticed into supporting the forces of the status quo while the bureaucracy continues to create hurdles. What is this war all about? What is to happen, and will it end in a Shakespearean tragedy? That is what we all yet to know.
The Metropolitan Corporation Quetta spends 90 million rupees per annum on solid waste and sanitation services in the city. According to a report from the University of Balochistan, MCQ is able to collect around 400 tonnes of garbage on a daily basis with the aforementioned amounts. However, the city produces more than 1,600 tonnes of garbage daily. This difference between production and disposal has resulted in an accumulation of 1,000 tonnes of garbage each day. A rough estimate by experts states that there are more than 2 million tonnes of garbage lying in the city. This can be witnessed in both urban and rural areas. There are garbage heaps everywhere. Trash is seen in drainages as well as in the irrigation nullahs across the city.
The 800 permanent ‘khakroobs’ were unable to perform their duties because of their age and their “networking.” This has resulted in the city being filled with filth with each passing day, further causing obvious damage to the city’s environment and affecting the health of the people. Dengue, Congo, malaria, hepatitis, and respiratory infections are just a few of the rampant epidemics in the city. The kids do not have open areas anymore where they can play. WHO has also reported rising cases of stunting in children. The elderly are also suffering from the random garbage on the streets. The garbage is polluting the environment and also the sub-soil water storages.
What could have been done to clean the city and save its residents from a terrible situation? MCQ, like any other government department, came up with a solution of buying new machinery worth Rs1 billion. It also submitted a case for a further Rs1 billion to clear outstanding liabilities that have been accruing since the rise in POL prices. For the cleanliness drive, more land worth billions was proposed to be acquired, and more staff was to be hired to clean the city, which would have cost the government more than a billion rupees adjusted over the next few years. How convenient, isn’t it? Cleaning the city with a Rs5 billion grant. The cash-crunched treasury has already been raising objections about the unaccounted-for HR in MCQ. It was a bottleneck, and there appeared to be no visible solution for the city managers.
About 6 months ago, the Quetta Commissioner’s Office and the Balochistan Public Private Partnership Authority’s team were called by the Chief Secretary, and a briefing was prepared for the new Chief Minister. After a detailed discussion in the presence of various secretaries and ministers, the Chief Minister gave the go-ahead to explore the option of Public Private Partnership for solid waste management in Quetta. The Commissioner was given the charge of Administrator Metropolitan Corporation Quetta to ensure unity of command and to push through the reform agenda envisioned by the CM, CS, and the government. Top experts from all over Pakistan were gathered, and a legal team was hired from Karachi. Models from Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, and even Istanbul were examined. It was learned that the Government of Punjab established a Waste Management Company in 2010, and the first private contract was awarded after 4 years. The transition had been extremely difficult and was met with resistance from unions, pressure groups with vested interests, media, and the corporation employees. Karachi had a different model, but it required massive budgetary support from the Government. Therefore, city managers decided to learn from all models and develop their own indigenous model that would fit into the present system of governance without burdening the exchequer.
It was clear that Rs 90 million was not a sufficient amount for a city that roughly catered to 5 million people annually. It was therefore decided to hand over the machinery, workshops, and contingent staff to the private concessionaire to reduce the burden on MCQ and also on the private party. A recycling plant was amalgamated into the project to reduce pressure on dumping sites. It was also decided to impose a tax of Rs 8 per day per house so that door-to-door collection could be ensured, and “kachra kundis,” or garbage tubs, could be cleared and converted into green areas and open spaces. The collection of tax has always been a challenge for municipalities. A city with over one hundred thousand trade shops only manages to collect from about 300 shops. This challenge led the managers to explore the option of selling carbon credits internationally in lieu of clearing open spaces and converting them into green areas. This would allow the private concessionaire to generate revenue for buying new machinery and modernizing solid waste management. During this phase, another issue arose. Some private contractors were already collecting Rs 500 from each house in Quetta in the name of door-to-door collection through young kids (often referred to as scavengers). They were taking away the green waste and recyclable materials to “kabaaris” and throwing away useless trash on the roads. It was decided to involve the police and magistrates as well to break this chain and take charge of the city’s trash. The research to come up with a panacea for solid waste took 3 months. The Chief Minister himself chaired all meetings, coordinated all efforts with different departments, and pushed for the summary to be brought to the cabinet. The project document was generated by BPPPA, vetted by the Public Private Unit, examined by the Administrator MCQ, and then presented to the Public Private Partnership Authority’s board, which is chaired by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Planning.
A giant leap was made. International tender was floated. The union started protesting. A few officers who were enjoying the benefits of the archaic model also jumped into the fray and sealed the MCQ offices. Attacks were made on the office of the commissioner. A few journalists and vloggers were also used to create chaos on the media front. Even writ petitions were filed in court. All that was handled, and a successful joint venture was accepted, with the inauguration taking place on the 14th of August 2024. It was hailed as a flagship project of the government. The transition toward the reformed model of JV started with it. Thirty percent of the area, along with staff, workshop, and machinery, has been handed over to the private concessionaire.
But this is when the war has entered its final phase. Unions, officials, and all status quo forces have joined hands to prevent the JV from succeeding. Intentionally, machinery is being damaged, drainage is being choked, the JV is being discouraged, and the office of the commissioner is being maligned almost on a daily basis.
It is now time for the people to decide. Do they want to let the archaic and inefficient system win, or do they want a new and clean Quetta? It will take a few months, but crossing this river of tears is essential. The ‘War on Trash,’ however, goes on!

By: Imran Aslam

As the United States approaches its 2024 presidential election, Pakistan finds itself at a crucial diplomatic juncture, closely monitoring the U.S. election as Donald Trump and Kamala Harris contend for the presidency. Over Six lacsPakistani-Americans living in the U.S., the diaspora wields considerable influence. This influence is especially notable in swing states like Texas, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Historically, Pakistani-Americans have leaned toward the Democratic Party.

For Pakistan, the stakes and implications are profound: each candidate presents divergent foreign policy trajectories, and the election’s outcome will decisively shape U.S.-Pakistan relations, especially in security cooperation and economic ties, while also impacting regional power dynamics involving India and China.

Pakistan must adopt a proactive diplomatic approach, focusing on open dialogue and collaboration on shared interests such as counterterrorism, climate change, and regional stability. Conversely, a Harris presidency may offer continuity and opportunities for deeper cooperation in trade and economic development. Yet, Pakistan must be ready to constructively engage with human rights issues. Success will depend on Pakistan’s diplomatic agility and its ability to balance relationships with both the U.S. and China. Strengthening educational and business ties with the Pakistani-American diaspora can play a vital role in fostering mutual understanding and support. Ultimately, the future of U.S.-Pakistan relations will hinge on Pakistan’s strategic positioning and its ability to navigate the shifting dynamics of a multipolar world.

On other hand Pakistani-Americans view Trump’s prior rapport with Imran Khan as an opportunity for renewed political engagement, many remain skeptical due to concerns over Trump’s unpredictable foreign policies. Trump’s transactional foreign policy, evident in his decision to cut aid over Pakistan’s counterterrorism shortcomings, signals that Trump’s second term could sustain pressure on Pakistan—particularly regarding its ties with China and its role in Afghanistan.

Harris and Policy Continuity: Stability With Caution

Kamala Harris, in contrast, offers a more stable but cautious approach to U.S.-Pakistan relations. As vice president, Harris supported the Biden administration’s decision to continue U.S. assistance to Pakistan.