Balochistan to deploy guards in buses

Pakistan Army personnel patrol stand guard outside a distribution center of polling materials in Peshawar on February 7, 2024, a day before Pakistan’s national elections. 

Balochistan government has decided to deploy armed guards in passengers’ vehicles after the deadly Noshki attack.

On Monday, in response to growing concerns over the safety of passengers on national highways, an important meeting chaired by Commissioner Quetta Division, Hamza Shafqaat, convened to address the issue.

The meeting, attended by key officials including Additional Commissioner Quetta Division Suban Dashti, Deputy Commissioner Quetta, Saad Bin Asad, police officials, FC, transporters, and others, culminated in decisive actions aimed at fortifying the security apparatus for travelers.

The meeting decided to deploy armed guards in the passenger buses in the wake-up execution of nine passengers in Balochistan’s Noshki district the other day.

Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras in all passenger coaches was mandated, bolstering surveillance capabilities to monitor and respond to any untoward incidents promptly.

Moreover, the National Highway Security Institutions will intensify patrolling efforts along designated routes, enhancing vigilance and preemptive measures against criminal activities.

Emphasizing the significance of collaborative efforts, Commissioner Hamza Shafaqat stressed the imperative of close coordination among pertinent agencies and transporters to safeguard passengers’ welfare.

Furthermore, stringent protocols were established to regulate travel operations, including daytime journeys and organized convoys during nighttime travels under heightened security supervision.

Notably, stringent measures were imposed to restrict unauthorized passengers, underscoring the prioritization of safety protocols.

The commissioner reiterated the commitment to continually assess and adapt security measures in response to evolving threats, underscoring the paramount importance of passenger safety on national highways.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 16^th, 2024.