Smooth flow of traffic on national highways: Section 144 imposed in Balochistan

QUETTA: A spokesperson for the Balochistan government, Shahid Rind, announced that the provincial government has imposed Section 144 across Balochistan to ensure the smooth flow of traffic on national highways, following disruptions caused by protests.

He made these remarks during a press conference on Monday. Shahid Rind emphasised that the current government is making earnest efforts to address public issues and provide relief by utilising all available resources. He highlighted that on his first day in office, the Balohistan chief minister affirmed that peaceful protest is a fundamental and democratic right of every citizen. The provincial government has consistently allowed citizens to voice their legitimate concerns.

However, he stressed that protesters must remain mindful of the inconvenience their actions can cause to others. "While registering protests, no one has the right to block national highways," he said, adding that the government will take necessary measures to prevent such disruptions.

The spokesperson said that the chief minister has taken notice of the ongoing highway blockages. He revealed that protests are currently underway at three locations in Balochistan. In response to a question, Shahid Rind assured that the government has no plans to privatise public hospitals.