Web Desk: Balochistan High Court has imposed an immediate ban on all new commercial activities and construction projects on Joint Road, while also suspending a controversial Pakistan Railways advertisement for commercial development in the area.
A two-member bench headed by Chief Justice Muhammad Kamran Khan Malakhail issued the interim order during the hearing of a constitutional petition related to traffic congestion, encroachments, and illegal commercial construction in Quetta.
The court directed that no new shops, plazas, hotels, markets, or commercial leasing projects would be allowed on Joint Road until further orders. Notices were also issued to Pakistan Railways, the district administration, and other concerned departments.
The bench summoned the Divisional Superintendent of Pakistan Railways in person and ordered the Deputy Commissioner Quetta to submit a detailed report on illegal commercial activities and encroachments in the city.
During the proceedings, the court expressed serious concern over alleged violations of its 2016 anti-encroachment ruling and warned that road expansion and traffic flow projects would not be compromised for commercial interests.
The restrictions on commercial activities along Zarghoon Road and Samungli Road also remain in force under previous court orders.
The court termed illegal constructions and worsening traffic jams a matter of public interest and directed authorities to ensure strict implementation of judicial orders before the next hearing.
