According to police officials, unidentified assailants on motorcycles threw a hand grenade at a house, which exploded in the backyard and injured five labourers.

“The injured individuals are from Punjab who were working on a daily wage,” police officials said.

Security forces rushed to the site shortly after the incident and shifted the injured to Prince Fahad Hospital.

Police added that the windowpanes of the affected house and nearby homes were also damaged.

An investigation has been launched, and no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

On Feb 16, two people were injured when unidentified individuals threw a hand grenade at a milk shop situated on Khuda-i-Dad Road in Quetta.

Last year, an eight-year-old child was killed and five other members of a family, including two women, were injured when a grenade exploded inside a house in the Wadh area of Balochistan’s Khuzdar district.

Police said two families from Sindh’s Kashmore district were in the house when unidentified assailants hurled a hand grenade into the courtyard. It exploded, killing the child on the spot.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities, especially in KP and Balochistan.

With an almost 34pc surge in overall violence, 2025 was recorded as the most violent year for Pakistan in a decade, a report from the Islamabad-based Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) think tank stated.

Mr Bugti said that under the programme, every citizen’s national identity card serves as his/her health card, making access to healthcare simple and universal.

He said the programme’s network has been extended to include major public and private hospitals not only in Balochistan but also across the country.

According to official figures, 345,000 patients belonging to Balochistan have received treatment under the programme. The chief minister said the provincial government remains committed to further improving healthcare facilities and expanding these services.

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2026

According to a statement, the Balochistan education department has organised these projects with the support of Unicef in 14 districts of the province to provide opportunities to students in remote areas to acquire knowledge through books.

“These innovative mobile units have emerged as a new ray of hope, significantly increasing children’s engagement with education. Orig–inally lau­n­ched as mobile schools, the initiative has now evolved into moving libraries, teaching centres, and modern ‘Science Rides’,” it added.

“In particular, the mobile science lab is playing a vital role in promoting scientific thinking, curiosity, and a learning spirit in areas where educational facilities are limited.”

Officials said that the ‘Book Van’ project was currently operational in 14 districts of the province, including Zhob, Qila Saifullah, Loralai, Pishin, Chaman, Quetta, Lasbela, Hub, Gwadar, Jaffa­rabad, Kachhi, Kech, Jhal Magsi, and Nushki. Mea–nwhile, the “Science Ride”­ is successfully functioning in Jaffarabad district.

The students welcomed the ‘Book Van’ journey initiative. District officials said students were taking an interest in books and termed it a positive step by the government and Unicef.

“We got great opportunities to gain knowledge through books which were displayed in the vehicles. We purchased many books on different subjects,” Zainab Shambay, a female student, said, adding that such “Book Van” journeys should also be arranged in other districts of Balochistan.

“Books are key to knowledge and reaching a high level. Our teachers reached there through reading books,” another girl student said.

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has praised the initiative, stating that such creative and courageous efforts were a strong guarantee of a brighter and more educated future for the province.

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2026

He made the announcement on Monday while inaugurating the High Voltage Engineering Laboratory and the Facilities Strengthening Centre at BUITEMS University.

On the occasion, Vice Chancellor BUITEMS Dr Khalid Hafeez, Pro Vice Chancellor Dr Mirwais Kasi, Principal Secretary to the Governor Abdul Nasser Dotani, Director P&D BUITEMS Dr Saeedullah Jan Mandokhail, along with heads of relevant departments, were also present.

“It has been made possible through vision and teamwork, and meaningful reforms have been introduced in all public sector universities of Balochistan,” Governor Mandokhail said.

He added that the increase in the budget from Rs2.5bn to Rs8bn has enabled institutional development and renovation across universities.

He said these prudent decisions have improved the ranking and performance of universities in the province, laying the foundation for quality education. Continuing this momentum, the governor noted that the inauguration of the High Voltage Engineering Laboratory and the Facilities Strengthening Centre at BUITEMS reflects the province’s commitment to sustainable development and progress.

The governor was briefed about both projects.

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2026

According to police, armed militants on a motorcycle opened fire on a police checkpost using automatic weapons, following which police personnel retaliated.

“The exchange of fire, which continued for some time, resulted in the martyrdom of a head constable,” a police official who wished to remain anonymous told Dawn, adding that the assailants then fled from the scene.

The official said that security forces rushed to the site of the incident and shifted the body to the district hospital, where the deceased was identified as Naimatullah.

He termed the incident a terrorist attack, saying a search operation had been launched in the area to trace those involved in the attack.

No one group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

Last week, a policeman was martyred and four others were injured in attacks on two police stations by unidentified men in the Dhadar and Mal area of Balochistan’s Kachhi and Noshki districts.

During the hearing of a constitutional petition, the additional advocate general informed the court that a committee constituted on an earlier court order had submitted its progress report, along with a proposed plan and supporting map.

The report highlighted the lack of participation from several lawyers representing relevant parties, despite repeated notifications, and noted that individuals claiming ownership of nearby land and shops failed to provide documentary proof.

To avoid delays and prevent wastage of public funds, the committee recommended immediate commencement of development work based on a plan approved in October 2025.

Expresses dissatisfaction over illegal encroachments in Sariab Road area

It also proposed that affected individuals be compensated in accordance with the law, including allocation of shops in a planned commercial plaza.

The court was further informed that the project is part of the current Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), but faces the risk of losing allocated funds with the financial year ending on June 30.

Taking notice, the bench directed senior government officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary (Development), Secretary Finance, and Secretary Communication and Works, to ensure that funds remain secured and are not surrendered.

Counsel for the Quetta Development Authority (QDA), Mohammad Akram Shah, assured the court that the governing body had already approved the plan, which includes construction of a business centre at the site of the old fruit and vegetable market. He emphasised that no shopkeeper would be displaced until alternative arrangements are provided.

However, the plan faced opposition from private parties and interveners, who alleged that the road alignment was being altered to benefit QDA-owned land. They also expressed concern over the adequacy of proposed compensation.

After hearing all sides, the court granted the committee another opportunity to review the matter. It directed all stakeholders to present original ownership documents at the next meeting, scheduled for May 2. Relevant officials, including QDA’s estate office, the Sariab Tehsildar, and revenue authorities, have been instructed to verify claims.

The bench also expressed strong dissatisfaction over continued illegal encroachments in the area. It ordered immediate action by the Director General of QDA, Deputy Commissioner of Quetta, and Administrator of Quetta Metropolitan Corporation to clear all encroachments, with support from law enforcement agencies.

A comprehensive compliance report, supported by photographic evidence, has been sought.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for May 7.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2026

Langove gave the assurance while visiting the residence of Mir Jameel Mengal to offer condolences over the tragic incident on Sariab Road. The shooting claimed the life of Mengal’s son, Haroon Jan Mengal.

During the visit, the home minister also expressed sympathy and offered Fateha for the families of Naseebullah Mengal and Abdul Ghaffar Mengal, who were also killed in the incident. Tribal elders and local notables were present.

Langove expressed deep grief and solidarity with the bereaved families and assured them that a high-level, transparent and impartial inquiry would be conducted.

He added that Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti had issued clear instructions that no negligence would be tolerated in the case.

“The government stands with the oppressed and against the oppressors,” the minister said.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2026

According to police, unidentified assailants opened fire in Gulistan, killing two individuals on the spot before fleeing the scene.

The deceased were identified as Bacha and Shah Muhammad.

Following the incident, police rushed to the area and took the bodies into custody.They later shifted the bodies to the Trauma Centre at Mizai Adda.

Authorities said the bodies would be handed over to families of the victims after completion of legal formalities, while an investigation into the incident was launched.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2026

In the Sherani area of Chhatter, a land dispute between the Jakhrani and Chakarani tribes turned violent, resulting in gunfire that killed a man identified as Bakhsh Ali Jakhrani, authorities said. Two others sustained injuries in the clash.

In a separate incident in Goth Sher, a woman was killed in a shooting by armed men, according to police.

Separately, authorities said a three-year-old boy, Rawal Khan Jat, drowned in the Pat Feeder Canal near Dera Murad Jamali. His body was recovered from the water and taken to the Teaching Hospital before being released to his family.

In Sohbatpur, the driver of a tractor-trolley was killed when the vehicle overturned in Goth Muhammad Ismail Khoso. The driver was killed on the spot. Separately, a young man was injured during a fight in Goth Liaquat Laghari.

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2026

The project is being described as an important step toward strengthening the maternal and child healthcare system and ensuring the provision of quality medical services to the public.

Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti said in a statement that the provincial government is grateful to the Chinese government for this important cooperation. He said the project is a shining example of Pakistan–China friendship and mutual cooperation, reflecting the strong relations between the two countries.

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2026

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Governor Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, Provincial Asse­mbly member Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, and Women Development Department Secretary Saira Atta.

The women’s market in Gwadar is being welcomed as a major milestone toward strengthening women’s financial independence. It has already started providing respectable employment opportunities to local women and is considered an effective step toward promoting women’s economic inclusion in the province.

During a briefing, officials informed that 14 shops have initially been set up in the Gwadar Women Market, where women are actively engaged in various business activities and showcasing their skills.

Chief Minister Bugti visited the market and interacted with businesswomen to hear about their issues, suggestions, and experiences.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Bugti said that empowering women is among the government’s top priorities.

He stated that such initiatives not only strengthen women’s economic independence but also play an important role in overall economic development.

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2026

The remarks were made while addressing a National Party meeting in Turbat. The meeting discussed in detail organisational issues and political matters of Tehsil Council Turbat and Tehsil Council Shahrak.

They alleged that the parliament has become a “lifeless institution”, where elected representatives are not heard. They added that by undermining the mandate of the National Party and other nationalist parties, further fuel has been added to the already worsening situation in Balochistan.

Dr Malik said that the attitude of the federation and federal institutions towards the province is inappropriate. He added that the sanctity of the public vote has been violated, and the mandates of political and nationalist parties are not being respected by the state and its institutions, which is increasing a sense of deprivation among the people.

NP leaders criticise parliament, calling it a ‘lifeless institution’

He further said that interference in the electoral process is eroding public trust in democracy and its institutions.

Senator Buledi said that the problems of Balochistan cannot be resolved through force. He said it is the fundamental responsibility of the state and its democratic and constitutional institutions to restore public confidence in democracy by adopting a reconciliation policy and initiating dialogue with all political forces of Balochistan. He stressed that national and political parties must be taken into confidence.

He added that the National Party is a political party of the people of Balochistan and represents the political workers of the province. He said the provincial government is not of the people, and party workers must reconnect with the public and make the party more active and dynamic.

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2026

QUETTA: Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) Balochistan Emir Senator Maulana Abdul Wasay has announced a boycott of the Bugti-led coalition government’s functions, official meetings, and visits to the Chief Minister’s House, alleging that the provincial government has launched operations against madressas (seminaries) across the province and sealed many of them.

Speaking at a press conference on Fri­day, along with Senator Kamran Murtaza and other party leaders, he said that the decision to socially boycott the government was taken in response to actions against seminaries. He said the law under which these actions are being carried out has neither been approved by parliament nor by the provincial assembly.

He declared that seminaries are the party’s “red line” and warned that those taking action against them have “dug their own grave.” He rejected the government’s law against seminaries and said that if operations are not stopped and an apology is not issued by May 2, the party will convene a meeting of the Provincial Majlis-i-Shura and announce a movement against the government.

Maulana Wasay said that the JUI-F supported the 26th Constitutional Amendment on the condition that seminaries would be registered under the Societies Act, adding that an additional clause was later included allowing seminaries to register with the Education Department if they wished.

He alleged that universities have become hubs of drugs, while seminaries produce people who run the country and are now being targeted.

Senator Kamran Murtaza, speaking on the occasion, said that seminaries in Balochistan are being issued notices and sealed. He added that the US Deputy Chief of Mission had also told JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman during a meeting that actions against seminaries were not an American demand and that the government and establishment were unnecessarily creating pressure.

Madressah registration

Meanwhile, the Balochistan government has decided to make the madressah registration process more organised and effective in view of reports regarding foreign funding and the presence of foreign individuals in some unregistered seminaries in the province.

Officials said that, according to available data, around 300 seminaries in Balochistan have been identified as operating without legal registration. In some of these institutions, reports of suspicious activities have also been received, which are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities.

Sources said that religious leaders — particularly the leadership of JUI-F — will be taken into confidence.

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2026

Police officials said unidentified armed assailants riding motorcycles attacked the Dhadar police station, firing rockets and grenades. The police personnel deployed at the site took defensive positions and retaliated.

“A heavy exchange of fire continued for over an hour, resulting in the killing of an attacker,” a senior police officer said.

He also confirmed that a Balochistan Constabulary policeman embraced martyrdom, adding that three others suffered injuries.

The body and the injured were shifted to the district hospital. Two of the injured policemen were said to be in serious condition and being moved to either Sibi or Quetta for treatment.

The attackers also set ablaze several vehicles parked outside the police station, while the building suffered significant damage. Additional police contingents were dispatched to Dhadar after the attack.

“The firing has stopped and the attackers have fled,” the official said.

Meanwhile, officials said a group of several armed men also attacked a police station in the Mal area of Noshki district.

According to reports, the assailants used rockets and grenades. A police official said a heavy gun battle ensued that lasted for over an hour. He added that one policeman was injured in the exchange of fire.

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2026

During the session, the Forest Department presented a comprehensive climate change mitigation plan, detailing a series of strategic interventions. These include forest conservation, rangeland restoration, shelterbelt plantations, measures to combat desertification, and efforts to improve wildlife habitats.

Officials of the forest department emphasised that the proposed framework adopts a long-term, landscape-based approach aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems while enhancing the resilience of local communities facing climate-related challenges.

The department also highlighted its ongoing reforestation initiatives, designed to expand green cover, boost biodiversity, and mitigate the environmental impact of climate change in Balochistan’s arid regions.

RDMC representatives welcomed the plan, praising its strategic depth and alignment with broader sustainability and environmental responsibility goals. They acknowledged the importance of coordinated efforts in addressing climate risks in resource-rich but ecologically vulnerable areas.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing a shared commitment to deepen cooperation and establish a structured partnership to advance climate action and promote sustainable natural resource management across the province.

The Forest Department was represented by senior technical officials, including Chief Conservators of Wildlife, Forests (North and South Zones), and Soil Conservation experts.

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2026

The arrest of Sanaullah by FIA is part of the agency’s intensified operations against elements involved in human trafficking in Balochistan. Acting on intelligence reports, FIA officials conducted a raid at Western Bypass area of the provincial capital and arrested Sanaullah for his alleged involvement in Afghan nationals’ smuggling.

The suspect is part of an organised human trafficking network.

Two mobile phones were also recovered from the possession of the suspect and preliminary investigation revealed his contacts with other human traffickers via Whatsapp.

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2026

The inauguration ceremony of Balochistan Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism was attended by Home Minister Mir Zia Langove, members of the provincial assembly, government officials and representatives of relevant institutions.

During the event, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat briefed participants on the centre’s objectives, research scope and planned future initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said the centre would highlight challenges faced by the youth through research and provide a strong foundation for practical solutions.

Bugti inaugurates digital dashboard to promote evidence-based policymaking

He said steering young people towards positive activities is the top priority of the government, adding that concrete measures were essential to discourage violent mindsets and extremist narratives.

The chief minister appreciated efforts of Home Minister Langove and Shafqaat for making the initiative possible.

After the inauguration of the centre, CM Bugti visited the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Quetta campus, where he planted a sapling and chaired a meeting.

Addressing students during a youth dialogue session, the chief minister said he was pleased to speak with the “future builders” of the country at one of its leading educational institutions.

He urged students to adopt practical research to understand the difference between perception and reality.

He said that perceptions spread faster than facts, often creating a clear gap between ground reality and impression regarding Balo­chistan. He said Paki­stan’s history contained a positive and inspiring story of Balochistan, but certain elements had distorted historical facts.

The chief minister expressed his commitment to engaging in dialogue at every level on facts related to Balochistan and the state narrative. CM Bugti said that continuous dialogue would help bridge the gap between the youth of the province and the state.

During the session lasting more than four hours, the chief minister held an extensive interaction with students and pledged not to leave without responding to every question raised by both male and female students.

Digital dashboard

At a separate event, the chief minister inaugurated the digital dashboard and publications of the Bureau of Statistics.

Working under the planning and development department the digital dashboard is aimed at promoting evidence-based policymaking in the province and modernising development planning.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by provincial ministers, members of the provincial assembly and senior officials of the provincial government.

Published in Dawn, April 24th, 2026

The traditional assembly in Gwadar was attended by top provincial officials, including Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail and Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, alongside the Corps Commander Quetta and other senior security officials. They were also joined by tribal elders and members of the business community and civil society.

Discussions focused on the development of the Makran Division and Gwadar.

“Balochistan’s development depended on public participation, tribal harmony and continuity in government initiatives,” Governor Mandokhail told the gathering.

He stressed that empowering women, youth and the local fishermen community was an “urgent need of the time”. CM Bugti said the government was accelerating development across the province and giving Gwadar special priority. He stated that Baloch youth had been pushed into a “futile conflict”, and promoting education was essential to steer them away from violence.

Quetta Corps Commander Lt Gen Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan affirmed that security forces were taking all possible measures to establish peace and protect major projects, including the CPEC.

He described mutual trust between the public and security institutions as the “foundation for sustainable peace”.

Published in Dawn, April 24th, 2026

According to police, the incident occurred late on Wednesday night in Killi Pandrani, where unknown assailants riding a motorcycle threw a hand grenade at a shop. The grenade exploded with a loud blast, injuring four individuals.

Police have registered a case and launched a search operation to trace the attackers.

Published in Dawn, April 24th, 2026

In a statement, the mining company National Resources Limited (NRL) said the attack took place on Wednesday evening, adding that security forces, including the Frontier Corps, responded promptly, secured the area and launched a clearance operation.

The company did not mention any casualties in its statement. However, local authorities confirmed the incident and nine casualties.

“At least nine employees, including two security guards, were killed,” a senior official of the Chagai administration said on condition of anonymity.

Police officials also confirmed the attack and the killing of nine people. All nine bodies were taken to Prince Fahad Hospital in Dalbandin.

In its statement, NRL said it remained “fully committed to the development and empowerment of local communities in Balochistan, with a strong focus on improving livelihoods and contributing to economic upliftment”.

“Over 90 per cent of the workforce at the Darigwan site comprises individuals from Balochistan,” the firm noted.

NRL said it was closely coordinating with the relevant authorities and affirmed that the safety and security of its employees and operations remained its highest priority.

NRL is a Pakistani mining company formed as a joint venture between Lucky Cement, Fatima Fertiliser, and Liberty Mills. The company is actively exploring copper-gold and lead-zinc deposits in Chagai and has reported significant mineral discoveries. Lucky Cement holds a 33.33 per cent equity stake in the venture.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) condemned the incident in a statement posted on X.

It said that the workers were “civilians and noncombatants, entitled under all circumstances to protection”. It maintained that the “deliberate targeting” was a violation of fundamental human rights.

The commission called on the state to “conduct an immediate, transparent investigation, hold perpetrators accountable, and take concrete measures to ensure the safety of all civilians”.

It further stressed that the people of Balochistan and “not armed groups, nor corporate or state interests” should be the focus of development in Balochistan.

Speaking to the media during the inauguration of a road from Chaman Phatak to Koyla Phatak in Quetta on Wednesday, the chief minister said the president had contacted him by phone both before and after his meeting with lawmakers and had issued certain instructions, which would be followed.

Provincial Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove, MPA Zarak Khan Mandokhail, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Secretary C&W Babar Khan, and other officials were also present on the occasion.

Mr Bugti said the president had called him a day earlier to inform him about the planned meeting. He said some party members wished to meet the president in his absence, which he welcomed.

Pledges full utilisation of Rs249bn uplift budget, dual carriageway in 70 days

To a question about reports of a possible political change in Baloc­hi­s­tan following the meeting, the chief minister remarked: “Let them fulfil their wishes.”

Some MPAs of the PML-N, including Zarak Mandokhail, who was also present at the road inauguration, have, on various occasions, hinted that the current government is based on a two-and-a-half-year power-sharing arrangement with the PML-N as an alliance partner. They have suggested that, after the completion of this period, the next chief minister would be from the PML-N. Mandokhail has also expressed his desire to assume the office.

Speaking about the newly inaugurated road, Mr Bugti said the road near Pishin Stop had been closed following an attack on the residence of the FC inspector general, in which his wife and children were injured. He said the road was currently open for one-way traffic and would be fully reopened once the construction of the FC headquarters’ wall was completed.

He termed the construction of the new road part of the development process and said the government was making efforts to accelerate development work in Quetta. He announced that the Chaman Phatak-Koyla Phatak road would be converted into a dual carriageway within 70 days.

Responding to another question, the chief minister said there had been some improvement in law and order indicators. He added that Balochistan was a conflict zone and that proxy elements were attempting to destabilise the province. He said the government was committed to ensuring the safety of every citizen and that a strategy was being devised to control crime in Quetta. He expressed confidence that a visible reduction in street crime would be witnessed soon.

Regarding the budget, the chief minister said the province had allocated Rs249 billion for development expenditures, which had increased due to certain requirements. He assured that 100 per cent of the funds would be utilised, stating that it was unacceptable for half the budget to remain unspent and lapse. “Public money will be spent on the public,” he added.

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2026

Addressing the gathering, the SSP announced a crackdown on encroachments and illegal parking, stating that indiscriminate action would be taken to improve the flow of traffic in the city.

He said that modernising the traffic system in Quetta has become an urgent need and that practical steps are being taken in this regard. He also appealed to the provincial government to increase the strength of traffic staff to ensure effective traffic management in the city.

SSP Bilal urged citizens and drivers to follow traffic rules, cooperate with traffic personnel and maintain a civilised attitude.

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2026

Speaking at an event to mark the 100th birth anniversary of the Balochi poet, the speakers said that Syed Zahoor Shah Hashmi was an institution in himself.

They said Hashmi remained committed throughout his life to the promotion and development of the Balochi language. In addition to being a poet, they said, he was also a linguist, with command over Balochi, Urdu, Arabic, English and Persian languages.

The anniversary event was organised by Syed Hashmi Academy in collaboration with RCD Council in Gwadar.

A large number of students, poets, intellectuals, political leaders and people from Karachi, Makran and Iran attended the event. The two-day event featured book launches, a tree-plantation campaign, a photo exhibition, and a vibrant performance by the RSI band.

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2026

He noted that in the past, a single decision to send back qualified teachers from Punjab pushed Balochistan decades behind in the field of education.

He expressed these vie­ws while addressing a ceremony at the Chief Minis­ter’s Secretariat, organised by the Balochistan Education Department to mark the successful completion of school enrolment campaign targets.

He remarked that Balo­chistan was not deprived by others, but by its own people. The chief minister reaffirmed that the provincial government is ful­ly committed to ensuring that the benefits of development reach the common people, particularly the poor and working class.

The chief minister said that on the very first day on the assembly floor, he had vowed that no job would be sold in the province, and he has made fulfilling that commitment part of his daily life. He stated that 99.99 per cent of teachers’ recruitment in the province has been carried out purely on merit.

He added that in the Ba­­lochistan Public Serv­i­­ce Commission and other de­­partments, modern technology — particularly artificial intelligence — is being used to ensure transparency and merit-based appointments.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2026

He said that journalists in Balochistan have performed their duties responsibly and effectively under difficult circumstances in the province and they have not allowed challenging conditions to affect their work.

He was speaking at a ceremony organised by Balo­chistan International Think Tank to give awards to media persons practising responsible journalism.

The governor said that journalists have always performed fact-based reporting, which has helped improve image of Balochistan in the world. Despite tough conditions, journalists in Balochistan have fulfilled their professional responsibilities.

On this occasion, former president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists Shahzada Zulfiqar and Balochistan International Think Tank Chairman Owais Jadoon also spoke.

Quetta Press Club President Irfan Saeed, Secretary Ayub Tareen, BUJ Secretary General Shah Hussain Tareen, Dr Fareed Agha and Dr Sadat also attended the event.

Governor Mandokhail was given “Nelson Mandela International Civil Award” by the Balochistan International Think Tank in recognition of his political and social services he rendered over the last 40 years as politician in Balochistan.

The governor also gave awards to journalists, including Abdul Khaliq Rind (chief reporter of Daily Jang and former Quetta Press Club president), Muhammad Afzal Mughal (Quetta Press Club senior vice president and chief reporter of Daily Mashriq), Bureau chief Online International News Network), Khalil Ahmed (former BUJ president, bureau chief of 92 TV), Manzoor Ahmed Rind (BUJ president, senior reporter of ARY), Noor-ul-Arifeen (senior reporter of Samaa News), Shahab Umar (reporter of Geo News), Syed Ali Shah (editor of Quetta Voice), Hassan Butt (Dunya TV), Khair Muhammad (BBC), Noor Zaman (Geo), Adnan Saeed (APP cameraman), Atiya Akram (ARY reporter), A. Kalven Saindu (photographer of Daily Intikhab), Ayub Khoso, Behram Baloch, and Murtaza Zehri.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2026

He expressed these views while chairing a review meeting on promoting electric vehicles in the country, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

“In view of the prevailing regional situation and the requirements of the future, the promotion of EVs will not only reduce the fuel import bill, but it is also extremely important for protecting the environment and energy security,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.

According to the statement, the prime minister directed that transparency be ensured in the subsidy provided on electric motorcycles for low-income individuals under the National Electric Vehicle Policy.

It added that the meeting was also briefed on ongoing steps to promote EVs nationwide.

The meeting was told that 72 certificates were issued for the manufacturing electric motorcycles and rickshaws, while four certificates were issued for the manufacturing of EVs.

The meeting was also told that so far, 123 applications had been received for the establishment of EV charging stations.

Further, the meeting was told that planning was underway to shift 30 per cent of vehicles across the country onto electricity, which would conserve fuel amounting to approximately $4.5 billion, the statement said.

The meeting was briefed that electric motorbikes would be provided to government employees of Grade 16 on easy installments, it added.

In January, the government launched the Pakistan Accel­erated Vehicle Elect­rification (PAVE) scheme to accelerate the country’s transition tow­ards clean, affordable and sustainable transportation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support the growth of domestic electric vehicle manufacturing.

The other ship, MV Dolphin 103, anchored at the port with 5,000 metric tons of MOP fertiliser. Port workers are carrying out offloading operations with full arrangements in place to ensure timely clearance.

According to officials, the arrival of cargo ships at Gwadar Port is contributing to increased economic activity. The Chairman of Gwadar Port, Noor-ul-Haq Baloch, said the rise in the port’s operational capacity is a positive development.

Gwadar Port Authority spokesperson Jameel Qasim said that MV HOM Leader has brought transshipment cargo, including various machinery and general goods. This reflects Gwadar’s growing importance as a regional logistics and machinery handling hub.

Meanwhile, MV Dolphin 103 delivered 5,000 metric tons of MOP fertiliser.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2026

He made these remarks during a meeting held in Quetta with a joint delegation of members from the Pakistan Bar Council and Balochistan Bar Council, where issues faced by the legal community, as well as ongoing and proposed welfare initiatives, were discussed in detail.

During the meeting, officials briefed the participants on several initiatives, including medical coverage for lawyers, provision of subsidised chambers at the Municipal Plaza, pink scooters, shuttle carts, buses and vans for lawyers’ mobility, a digital library and progress on the Lawyers Welfare Housing Scheme.

CM Bugti said the welfare of lawyers was among the provincial government’s top priorities and that practical steps were being taken to resolve their issues. He added that improving facilities for lawyers would further strengthen the judicial system.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2026

According to BFA officials, three plants were sealed during operations on Old Sabzal Road, the Western Bypass, and in Jabal Noor.

Serious violations included poor hygiene, the presence of rodent waste, a lack of registration, and incorrect labeling. Samples of bottled water were collected from the sites and sent to laboratories for testing.

In further actions, authorities sealed three additional plants in Nawakili, Killi Shabo, and Chashma Achuzai. Inspectors there allegedly found algae in storage tanks, tampered expiry dates, and a lack of basic safety measures.

On Sirki Road, an inspection of six RO plants resulted in one unit being sealed and another fined. Four more plants were sealed in the Double Road and Satellite Town areas for violations of food safety regulations.

Several samples were also collected for laboratory analysis.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2026