Web Desk: The Balochistan government has imposed a 15-day ban on the sale, purchase, transportation, supply, and distribution of urea and other nitrogen-based fertilizers across the province to prevent their misuse in the manufacture of explosives and strengthen public security.
The temporary restriction applies to all districts of Balochistan and covers urea, ammonium nitrate, calcium ammonium nitrate, and potassium nitrate. The order was issued by the Directorate General Agriculture Extension Balochistan in response to the province’s prevailing security situation.
According to provincial authorities, the ban is intended to stop the illegal use of nitrogen-based fertilizers in improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other subversive activities. Officials said the measure is part of ongoing efforts to enhance law and order and protect public safety across Balochistan.
The 15-day restriction will remain in force until further orders from the competent authority. During this period, the Balochistan government will prepare comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the regulated sale, purchase, storage, transportation, supply, and distribution of nitrogen-based fertilizers.
The Agriculture Extension Department has directed fertilizer manufacturers, wholesalers, dealers, distributors, and retailers to maintain accurate inventory records of all existing stocks throughout the ban period. Authorities said regulated sales will resume only after the new monitoring framework and SOPs are approved.
The latest decision reflects the provincial government’s broader strategy to tighten control over explosive precursor materials while ensuring that fertilizer distribution is carried out under enhanced security and regulatory oversight.
