Balochistan Government to Raise Concerns Over PPL’s Non-Compliance with Agreement
PPL has earned over Rs. 100 billion in 15 years but has not shared profits with the provincial government, says Shahid Rind
Quetta: A high-level cabinet meeting chaired by Balochistan Chief Minister, Mir Sardarfraz Bugti, on Thursday expressed concern over the Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) company’s non-compliance with its expired lease agreement with the provincial government. The agreement between the provincial government and PPL, which expired almost 15 years ago, has not been renewed, and during this period, PPL has reportedly earned over Rs. 100 billion without sharing any profits with the Balochistan government.
Shahid Rind, the spokesperson for the provincial government, confirmed that the cabinet has decided to take up the matter with the federal government due to the company’s lack of cooperation and the expired agreement. The Chief Minister reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to addressing such issues in a firm yet respectful manner with federal authorities.
Mir Sardarfraz Bugti further stated that if no progress is made following the meeting, a special session of the Balochistan Assembly and the provincial cabinet will be called to take further action.
In addition to the PPL issue, the Balochistan cabinet approved several key decisions, including amendments to the Agricultural Production General Rules 1995, and the Balochistan SME Development Strategy. The cabinet also approved the Reko Diq ML-20 Mining License Amendment and a proposal to convert the Taktu Protected Area into a national park, with a ten-year ban on hunting for wildlife protection.
To ensure local tribes’ participation in these conservation efforts, a parliamentary committee consisting of Bakhth Muhammad Kakr, Noor Muhammad Damar, and Naseem-ur-Rehman has been formed, alongside the Secretary of Forests and Commissioner Quetta.
Additionally, the cabinet approved the payment of dues to farmers for the wheat procured by the government, the Balochistan Public Gathering, Assembly and Procession Act 2024, which sets specific protest locations and requires prior approval from the relevant authorities, and the Balochistan Land Revenue (Amendment) Act 2024.
These decisions reflect the provincial government’s ongoing efforts to address both developmental and regulatory concerns within the province.
