GWADAR, a jewel in the country's crown of withering resources, is a hope that must receive the government's full attention at the current stage.

Recently severe problems, both political and socio-economic, have been responsible for the absence of the government's sheer commitment towards the development of this seaport.

The seeds of political unrest and unchecked antagonism, that had distended amongst the people of Balochistan for years, have now spread deeply towards the Makran coast and thus into Gwadar as well.

The so far 'restrained violence' in the form of kidnappings and threats to life has made the region inaccessible to businessmen — contractors, professionals and traders alike — for any profitable venture.

The residential and commercial projects that had been initiated with great zeal and ceremony, for instance 'PC Gwadar', now stand desolate in wilderness, without a soul in sight.

The city which had been foreseen to bring in tremendous fortunes for the country in terms of foreign investment, trade, foreign exchange and employment, has been completely forsaken.

Before it gets too late and we yet again are rendered helpless to cry over 'spilt honey', the government, together with a process of reconciliation with the people of Balochistan, must focus even more acutely on Gwadar's development, resolving issues with the leaders concerned, both empathising and then emphasising the importance of Gwadar for the people of Balochistan, in particular, and Pakistan, in general.

BAHAWAL SHAHRYAR
Bahawalpur