Numerous cities and towns in Balochistan, including Quetta, have been facing a severe shortage of petrol and diesel for the past four days. This crisis has arisen due to oil companies being unable to transport new supplies from Karachi because of the closure of the Quetta-Karachi National Highway, a result of ongoing sit-ins organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC).
In an attempt to prevent BYC convoys from reaching Gwadar for the Baloch Raji Muchi (Baloch national gathering) on July 28, the Balochistan government blocked several highways. This blockade has also disrupted the supply of Iranian petrol and diesel, which are cheaper than other petroleum products, from the border areas. Consequently, most petrol stations in Quetta now display “not available” signs. Some stations with access to Iranian petrol are selling it at significantly higher prices, causing long queues of vehicles. Reports indicate that in Zhob, Duki, Loralai, Barkhan, and parts of Quetta, Iranian petrol is being sold at Rs. 550 per liter.
However, according to Qayyumuddin Agha of the Balochistan Petroleum Association, the supply has resumed, and the situation is expected to improve within 24 hours.
Protests Persist Despite Restoration of Services
Despite the restoration of internet and mobile services and the reopening of roads in Gwadar, BYC’s sit-ins continue in Quetta, Noshki, and Gwadar. Senior Minister for Planning and Development Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi stated that the government has begun implementing the agreement with BYC, releasing many supporters and promising to release those named in FIRs by Monday after the judicial process.
Buledi urged BYC leaders to demonstrate responsibility and adhere to the agreement. Meanwhile, BYC supporters continue their sit-in at Balochistan University and on the Quetta-Taftan Highway, blocking Sariab Road and Quetta-Taftan National Highway, thereby disrupting trade with Iran. BYC leader Bebarg Baloch declared that the sit-in would persist until their demands, including an FIR against security officers for killing one person and injuring two others in Noshki, are met. They also demand assurances from the home department against further security force actions and the release of all arrested protesters. Additionally, they want Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti and his cabinet to accept responsibility for the police action at a joint press conference with BYC leaders.
