Balochistan Province

Quetta: ReNews Pakistan
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has underscored the need for the Gwadar Development Authority to move towards financial sustainability, stressing that development institutions must strengthen their internal revenue mechanisms to support long-term urban growth in Gwadar.
The remarks were made while presiding over the 31st meeting of the GDA governing body, where the chief minister reviewed progress on ongoing development schemes, civic infrastructure projects, and future planning for the coastal city’s urban expansion.
During the session, the governing body approved the authority’s annual budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. The chief minister also directed the finance department to conduct a special audit of the authority’s accounts to ensure transparency and financial discipline, with a detailed report to be presented at the next meeting.
Expressing concern over the authority’s financial structure, CM Bugti noted that the GDA currently generates around Rs70 million in annual revenue, while its expenditures reach approximately Rs870 million, creating a significant fiscal gap. He emphasised that development bodies must gradually reduce reliance on government funding by strengthening resource mobilisation and institutional efficiency.
The chief minister further announced administrative and institutional reforms aimed at transforming the authority into a more proactive development agency capable of effectively managing Gwadar’s urban planning and infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, the governing body approved feasibility studies for infrastructure improvement projects, including the upgradation of drainage systems, sewerage networks, road infrastructure, and street development in low-lying areas of the city. These schemes are expected to be incorporated into the next fiscal year’s development programme to enhance civic facilities and support sustainable urban development in Gwadar.

Quetta: ReNews Pakistan
The Government of Balochistan has taken a final decision to fully restore and operationalise Pasni Fish Harbour, marking a major policy move aimed at revitalising the province’s fisheries sector and strengthening the coastal economy.
The decision was announced during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti in Quetta. The chief minister directed relevant departments to prepare a comprehensive and implementable feasibility report by May 2026 to ensure the timely execution of the harbour restoration project.
During the meeting, Secretary of Fisheries Tariq Qamar briefed participants on the deteriorating condition of the harbour, highlighting key challenges including heavy siltation, aging and damaged infrastructure, and the persistent issue of illegal trawling. Officials noted that these factors have significantly reduced the harbour’s operational capacity and adversely affected the livelihoods of local fishermen.
CM Bugti instructed authorities to develop a detailed, technically viable feasibility plan, emphasizing that practical work must commence without delay once the report is finalized. He underscored that the revival of Pasni Fish Harbour is not merely an infrastructure upgrade but a strategic economic intervention aimed at unlocking the potential of Balochistan’s maritime resources.
Taking a firm stance on illegal fishing practices, the chief minister warned that unlawful trawling would not be tolerated under any circumstances. He directed strict enforcement measures against violators, stating that protecting the rights and economic interests of local fishermen remains a top priority of the provincial government.
The chief minister observed that the restoration of the harbour would significantly boost fish exports, create employment opportunities for thousands of fishermen and associated workers, and improve socio-economic conditions across coastal communities. He described the initiative as a critical step toward modernising the fisheries sector and enhancing sustainable marine resource management.
The meeting was attended by MPA Gwadar Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman, Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary (Development and Planning) Zahid Saleem, Additional Chief Secretary (Interior) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat, and other senior officials.
The development assumes added importance as Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman had recently raised concerns in the provincial assembly regarding the harbour’s declining condition and the impact of illegal fishing on local livelihoods. The government’s decision is being viewed as a response to those concerns and a renewed commitment to coastal development in Balochistan.

Quetta: ReNews Pakistan
Differences of opinion surfaced in the Balochistan Assembly over the provincial government’s decision to create new divisions and districts, with opposition members expressing reservations over administrative restructuring while the government defended the move as part of governance reforms.
Former chief minister Nawab Muhammad Aslam Raisani opposed the inclusion of Kachhi district in Sibi division and Mastung in Quetta division, stating that such administrative changes could affect the province’s historical and geographical context.
He warned that alterations in administrative boundaries may lead to concerns related to employment opportunities, educational quotas, and distribution of resources.
Provincial Minister Sardar Abdul Rehman Khetran also highlighted Mastung’s historical significance, stressing that regional background and local sensitivities should be considered before implementing administrative changes. He further questioned the formation of the Upper Dera Bugti district and the inclusion of certain areas within its jurisdiction.
Presenting the government’s stance, Provincial Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar said the establishment of new divisions and districts was aimed at improving administrative efficiency, strengthening governance outreach, and accelerating development activities. He rejected opposition claims and maintained that decisions were taken in the broader public interest.
Provincial Minister Zahoor Buledi described the new administrative units as a step toward improved governance, stating that decentralisation would help address local issues more effectively and enhance monitoring of development initiatives.
During the session, several lawmakers emphasised the need for broader consultation and consensus-building among stakeholders to ensure administrative stability and institutional harmony across the province.