QUETTA: In a major step to improve security on the province’s road network, the Balochistan government has decided to establish a dedicated force to protect highways and ensure safe movement of passengers and commercial transport.
The decision comes at a time when authorities try to address the growing security challenges on key routes connecting different parts of the province, with officials stressing the need for a specialised force that is capable of effectively responding to threats targeting road users and freight vehicles.
Speaking about the move, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Hamza Shafqat said that an estimated Rs25 billion would be required to establish and equip the proposed security force. He added that the provincial government intends to operationalise the force within the next six months as part of its broader strategy to strengthen law enforcement infrastructure.
Until the new force is fully operational, the government is considering interim security arrangements to protect commercial transport. Under the proposed plan, cargo vehicles will travel in organised convoys to reduce security risks while passing through vulnerable areas of the province.
Officials believe that the convoy system can provide better protection for cargo ships by allowing law enforcement agencies to coordinate security more effectively along sensitive highway corridors.
Hamza Shafqat also announced that the provincial government is working on introducing an insurance mechanism for cargo transport vehicles. The proposed system aims to provide financial protection to transport operators and reduce losses resulting from security-related incidents.
In addition, he said that the process of compensating owners of vehicles damaged or destroyed in recent attacks is being expedited. Officials aim to accelerate financial assistance to affected transporters while strengthening confidence in the government’s efforts to restore safe trade routes.
The establishment of a dedicated highway security force is expected to play a significant role in protecting commercial activities, improving the movement of goods and strengthening public confidence in the province’s transportation network. The move also reflects the government’s broader efforts to enhance security, facilitate economic activities and ensure safe travel across Balochistan.
With work expected to begin soon, provincial officials say the project will remain a priority as they seek to modernise highway security and provide long-term protection to travellers, transport companies and businesses operating across the province.
