QUETTA: A division bench of the Balochistan High Court (BHC), comprising Chief Justice Muhammad Kamran Khan Mulakhail and Justice Muhammad Najmuddin Mengal, on Sunday took significant steps towards advancing a major urban development project concerning the relocation of a roundabout and construction of a new road at Sariab Road and Sariab Link Road.

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