Balochistan ramps up anti-terror efforts

Cabinet meeting vows to eradicate scourge from province

QUETTA:

In a critical meeting, led by Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, the provincial cabinet condemned the recent bombing at the Quetta Railway Station, expressing solidarity with the victims by offering prayers, and vowing enhanced efforts to eradicate terrorism across the province.

Following the blast, which resulted in 26 deaths and 54 injured individuals being rushed to Quetta's Trauma Centre, Medical Director Dr Arbab Kamran confirmed that over 25 were discharged after treatment.

The conditions of two injured remain critical, and 11 others are currently receiving care, while 24 seriously injured have been moved to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) for specialised treatment.

The cabinet took significant steps to bolster security, approving the Balochistan Security of Vulnerable Establishments Act 2024.

This legislation aims to improve coordination among security agencies and clarify responsibilities to maintain peace. Additionally, plans for new police stations in Rada Shim, Kangri, and a Levies station under, the Chaman Masterplan, were sanctioned to extend security reach in key areas.

Addressing Quetta's development, Chief Minister Bugti directed that new police station jurisdictions should align with public security needs, supporting the Quetta Development Package to enhance infrastructure and beautify the city.

"Quetta represents the face of Balochistan, and we are committed to its prosperity," Bugti stated, pledging immediate funding for urban development projects.

The cabinet also approved appointments to the Balochistan Sales Tax on Services Revenue Appellate Tribunal to strengthen governance. With a renewed commitment to security and infrastructure, the government aims to foster peace and progress throughout the region, in line with Chief Minister Bugti's vision for a secure Balochistan.

In a rushed visit to the Balochistan capital on Sunday, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti at the Chief Minister Secretariat to take stock of security protocols in the aftermath of Saturday's devastating suicide attack at the city's railway station.

The attack, which targeted passengers, claimed at least 26 lives and left dozens of others injured. Also, the province declared three days of mourning as it comes to terms with the devastating loss of life. Both Naqvi and Bugti expressed solidarity with the victims and pledged to intensify efforts against terrorism.

"The government is fully committed to strengthening resources for peace in Balochistan and ensuring the eradication of terrorism."