Water Crisis Worsens in Quetta as Tanker Mafia Hikes Prices, Citizens Protest

Quetta: The provincial capital Quetta is grappling with a severe water crisis amid scorching summer heat, as residents accuse the district administration and WASA (Water and Sanitation Authority) of negligence. The failure of the authorities has allowed the so-called tanker mafia to exploit the situation by drastically raising water prices, pushing a single water tanker’s cost up to PKR 3,000 — far beyond the reach of the average citizen.
Water supply from WASA in both central and suburban areas has come to a halt, leaving people dependent on private tankers. Residents of areas such as Sherani, Sariab, Nawan Killi, Kasi Road, Pashtoonabad, Spini Road, Brewery Road, Hazara Town, and Kuchlak are reportedly wandering daily in search of water.
Citizens expressed frustration over the administration’s poor planning and inaction, stating that while water has become a rare commodity, private suppliers are profiteering massively. In addition to skyrocketing prices, concerns have been raised over the quality and quantity of the water being delivered, with reports of contaminated water leading to health issues in several neighborhoods.
Residents have urged the Balochistan government, WASA officials, and district administration to take immediate action by restoring public water supply, launching a crackdown against the tanker mafia, and regulating water prices. They warned that failure to do so would lead to mass protests across the city.