Balochistan needs effective reforms, governance based on competence: Bugti

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti Friday said Uraan Pakistan was a well-structured and visionary initiative, built on clear developmental planning.

He stressed that it was not a utopian dream but was backed by a strategy and practical steps, much like how many nations in the world realized their dreams through vision and determination.

Bugti emphasized that Balochistan currently needed effective reforms, accurate planning, and governance based on competence.

He stated, “It is crucial for us to understand that development does not occur merely by announcing projects, but through scientific, economic, and administrative actions.”

He mentioned that his government had initiated fundamental reforms in the Department of Planning and Development. For the first time, there is an effort to utilize Balochistan’s development funds — amounting to Rs210 billion — effectively.

Referring to Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the chief minister said he elaborated on the vision of Uraan Pakistan and the role of all provinces, including Balochistan.

“If we adopt new approaches to development and take coordinated steps, Pakistan can move towards a brighter future,” he added.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for supporting major projects in Balochistan, such as the construction of highways and the Kachhi Canal.

“The funds provided are a practical expression of the federation and other provinces’ love and solidarity with Balochistan,” he said.

“Without this support, the roads might still have been built — but it would have taken 10 years. Now, the same roads will be completed in just two years, which is a great achievement,” he added.

Bugti noted that while Balochistan was often criticized for poor governance, the real challenge lay in improving governance, effective planning, and integrating the youth into the national mainstream.

“Our government is committed to implementing a system based on merit and competence. We may not achieve 100% transparency, but we will strive to ensure 80% merit. When the youths are given their rights, they will naturally become part of government efforts.”

He said, “We have to decide whether we want to walk the path of destruction or development. We are clearly ready to choose development.” Balochistan’s mineral resources, financial sector, industrial potential, and strategic importance can distinguish it from the other provinces.

The chief minister announced that the Balochistan government will approve an “Export Development Board” next week to promote exports.

Special Industrial Zones are also being activated to become true centers of industrial production, rather than symbolic projects, he said.

He shared that scholarships were being awarded to 100 students from 12 underdeveloped districts of Balochistan at Sadiq Public School, Bahawalpur.

“The government is trying to launch projects that provide long-term benefits and direct relief to the common man,” he said.

Discussing the Kachhi Canal project, he reminded the audience that it began in 2002 but faced delays for years. “In 2017, barren lands turned into green fields. After the 2022 floods, the current government restored the project once again, and now crops are flourishing.”