Master plan for Quetta demanded

A seminar was organized by Balochistan Think Tank Network (BTTN) about the need for a Master Plan of Quetta here Tuesday. The speakers shared their views on challenges, ground realities and the way forward for a city master plan. Head of BTTN Agha Ahmad Gul gave an introductory talk.

He briefed the audience about the possibilities of massive earthquakes in Quetta and argued that on account of mismanagement, corruption and improper or no town planning at all, Quetta cannot stand against such catastrophic disasters that Turkey and Syria have recently faced.

The first speaker of the seminar Farid Bugti, Deputy Convenor QDM, seconded Brig Gul’s views. He presented a five-point solution that should be considered for any proposed master plan for Quetta.

These points include: Quetta is an overpopulated city, therefore population development should be a part of a master plan for Quetta; a successful model should be adopted for the said purpose instead of testing a new model; markets should not be allowed within the city; road permits should not be given to old vehicles; career counselling and provision of required skills should also be kept in the to-do list while planning such a master plan.

Dr Siraj Bashir, Research Director BTTN and Raza Wakeel of QDM highlighted the historical significance of Quetta city and emphasized that mismanagement, massive corruption, lack of will and planning and shortage of civic sense have ruined this beautiful valley once known as ‘Little London’.

Dr Siraj recommended dividing Quetta in multiple zones; proper settlement of Afghan refugees; making of new towns in the surroundings of the city; end to commercialization on fertile lands; a need-based plan as the main ingredients of a master plan for Quetta. He stressed that ownership of the city, valuing its essence and beauty, and rule of law were three main essentials.