Staff Reporter:Â
Quetta – July 8:
The 19th meeting of the Balochistan Apex Committee was held in Quetta under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti. Senior civil and military officials, including Corps Commander Balochistan Lieutenant General Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan, were present during the high-level session.
The committee reviewed key issues related to public security, law and order, and administrative governance. A major focus of the meeting was to strengthen ongoing operations against smuggling, with specific instructions issued to take strict legal action against transport companies and drivers involved in illegal trade. First Information Reports (FIRs) will be registered, and vehicles used in smuggling activities will be seized.
The Apex Committee directed relevant departments to finalize the rules under the Anti-Terrorism Act without delay. It was also decided that no road in Balochistan will be allowed to be blocked in the name of protest, as such actions violate the rights of ordinary citizens. The state, the committee emphasized, stands with the public, particularly those in urgent need such as ambulance patients.
The committee instructed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to take decisive action against those involved in illegal foreign remittances and financial crimes. Measures were also approved to intensify cyber-monitoring of social media accounts spreading anti-state propaganda.
Efforts will be made to eliminate extortion networks targeting mine owners and businesses to create a secure environment for investment in the province. The crackdown on illegal immigrants will also be expanded to ensure compliance with national laws.
To enhance operational response, the committee approved the development of an improved mechanism to deal with terror threats. The Fourth Schedule system, which tracks individuals involved in terrorism and hate speech, will be fully digitized for real-time monitoring and accountability.
Key infrastructure projects were also discussed. The National Highway Authority (NHA) was directed to complete the Quetta Western Bypass by December 25. In case of further delays, the provincial government will undertake the construction in the public interest. The Balochistan government will also build the Bolan Highway extension and the Dera Murad Jamali Bypass.
The committee imposed a ban on petroleum product tankers (LHS) entering residential areas. The Frontier Corps will provide security for the Pat Feeder Canal project in Dera Bugti. Authorities were also instructed to speed up work on the Chaman Master Plan.
District Development Committees across the province will be reactivated to strengthen grassroots governance. It was also decided that Balochistan will mark Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day and Martyrs’ Week with national spirit and public participation.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to eradicating smuggling, corruption, illegal financial flows, and subversive activities. He emphasized that protecting youth from drugs and extremism is a top priority and warned that no one will be allowed to act against the interests of the state.
The Chief Minister also expressed disappointment over delays in NHA projects and stated that if the authority fails to act in a timely manner, the provincial government will complete the projects itself. He concluded by saying that full implementation of Apex Committee decisions is essential for lasting peace and development in Balochistan.
