Transporters Announce Province-Wide Transport Shutdown and Protest in Khuzdar Over Alleged Misconduct by Security Forces

Khuzdar, Quetta:The All Balochistan Transporters Action Committee and the All Quetta Karachi Coaches Union have announced a province-wide public transport shutdown starting from May 18, indefinitely, along with a protest sit-in in front of Khuzdar Cantonment. The protest is aimed at highlighting alleged misconduct by security agencies, unnecessary checkings, and the mistreatment of staff.

According to a statement issued by the spokesperson, the protest is meant to raise concerns about the harsh behavior of security forces, excessive and unjustified checks, and the continuous disrespect faced by transport workers. The statement further clarified that inter-provincial and inter-district coaches and buses across Balochistan will remain fully suspended, and offices of coach companies in major cities such as Quetta and Karachi will be closed as part of the protest.

The spokesperson expressed that the constant mistreatment of coaches and staff at checkposts and the delays in operations have become routine, making it unbearable for the transporters. The statement also emphasized that Balochistan is the only province where a checkpost exists every kilometer, leading to public and transporter humiliation.

The transport sector is already suffering due to rising inflation, unemployment, and instability, and the added pressure from security forces has made the situation intolerable. The committee’s statement also included demands for a change in the behavior of security personnel towards the transport staff, the removal of unnecessary checkposts, and relief for the coaches and their employees from both mental and financial strain.

The spokesperson made it clear that if immediate action is not taken to address these issues, the protest will continue indefinitely until their demands are met.