Balochistan Assembly Calls for Uninterrupted Power Supply, Labels Province Disaster-Hit

The Balochistan Assembly passed a resolution demanding uninterrupted power supply and disaster status for the province. The resolution highlighted exploitation of resources without benefits for locals. Backed by both government and opposition, the resolution demanded power supply from Iran at Iranian rates, and called for addressing gas shortages.

Balochistan's legislative body took a firm stance on October 18, passing a resolution that implores the central Pakistani government to secure an uninterrupted power supply for the resource-rich province. The motion illuminated the ongoing exploitation, where resource extraction yields little direct benefit for the inhabitants of Balochistan.

Initiated by Hidayatur Rehman of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), the resolution emphasized that areas like Quetta, which produce electricity, should benefit from consistent supply. It also shed light on the drastic decline in electricity provision from Iran to the Makran division, stressing potential repercussions for Pakistan's frail economy.

With sweeping support from both sides of the political aisle, the resolution advocated for Iranian-rate electricity billing and the waiving of current electricity dues. The Assembly, chaired by Chief Minister Khair Jan Baloch, also tasked Sarfraz Bugti with addressing the gas and electricity calamity with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

(With inputs from agencies.)