File photo: A passenger coach that collided with a car in Balochistan's Mastung district: Photo provided by Asmat Sumalani

Syed Ali Shah: 

QUETTA: Responding to escalating apprehensions regarding passenger safety on national highways, Commissioner Quetta Division, Hamza Shafqaat, spearheaded a crucial meeting aimed at tackling the issue head-on. Attended by key officials including Additional Commissioner Quetta Division Suban Dashti, Deputy Commissioner Quetta Lt. R. Saad Bin Asad, law enforcement representatives, FC personnel, transporters, and other stakeholders, the gathering culminated in decisive measures to fortify security measures for travelers.

In the wake of the recent tragic incident in Balochistan’s Noshki district, where nine passengers met a grim fate, the meeting swiftly resolved to deploy armed guards aboard passenger buses, enhancing protection for commuters.

Furthermore, a mandate was issued for the installation of CCTV cameras in all passenger coaches, augmenting surveillance capabilities to promptly address any untoward incidents.

Additionally, the National Highway Security Institutions pledged to escalate patrolling endeavors along designated routes, bolstering vigilance and preemptive actions against criminal activities. Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat underscored the pivotal role of collaborative efforts, stressing the imperative of close coordination among relevant agencies and transporters to safeguard passengers’ welfare.

Stringent protocols were delineated to regulate travel operations, including stipulations for daytime journeys and organized convoys during nighttime travels under heightened security scrutiny. Notably, measures were enforced to curtail unauthorized passengers, underscoring the prioritization of safety protocols.

Commissioner Shafqaat reiterated an unwavering commitment to continually evaluate and adapt security measures in response to evolving threats, underscoring the paramount importance of passenger safety on national highways. A comprehensive security blueprint, tailored to address prevailing challenges, will be meticulously crafted following a thorough review of current security conditions.

In conclusion, the concerted efforts of all stakeholders signal a steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety and security of passengers navigating the national highways. With proactive measures in place and collaborative initiatives underway, authorities remain resolute in their dedication to upholding travelers’ well-being, promising a safer journey ahead.

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Quetta Voice is an English Daily covering all unfolding political, economic and social issues relating to Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province in terms of area. QV's main focus is on stories related to education, promotion of quality education and publishing reports about out of school children in the province. QV has also a vigilant eye on health, climate change and other key sectors.