Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti Unveils Clear Roadmap for Development, Prioritizes Good Governance, Security, and Youth Empowerment in Budget Speech

QUETTA:In his address to the Provincial Assembly while concluding the budget debate, Balochistan Chief Minister, Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, highlighted the significant steps taken by the government to ensure the development and progress of the province. He emphasized that the current government had successfully passed its second budget, with no objections raised by the opposition.

The Chief Minister reflected on the collaborative efforts of the federal government, particularly acknowledging the role of former President Asif Ali Zardari, who always supported Balochistan during times of crisis. He expressed a strong commitment to creating a clear road map for the coming years, with a focus on good governance and the maintenance of law and order as top priorities.

While acknowledging that governance is in place, CM Bugti stressed that improvements would be made, particularly in the bureaucracy, as merit-based promotions are essential for good governance. He explained that public complaints, which have often been the result of poor service delivery, would be addressed through a special grant. Furthermore, he assured that every complaint would be resolved promptly.

The Chief Minister highlighted some key achievements, such as the opening of 3,201 schools in the past year and the hiring of 16,000 new employees. He also directed the concerned ministries to fill all vacant positions within the next two months and make inactive BHUs and hospitals functional within three months.

Despite limited resources, CM Bugti emphasized that the provincial budget had been fully utilized, and the government is committed to implementing the PSDP (Public Sector Development Program) in the next fiscal year. A major goal of the government, he added, is to ensure that people from remote areas benefit from development initiatives.

Security remained a central concern, and Bugti asserted that the entire country was worried about law and order issues in Balochistan. However, he expressed confidence in the security forces, stating that all roads in the province were open and that terrorism would not be tolerated. Measures would be taken to provide modern equipment to the forces, while the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) would be further strengthened to tackle terrorism more effectively.

The CM further outlined several key projects and initiatives, including:

* **A budget of 74 billion rupees** allocated for fulfilling development goals.
* **Business opportunities** for youth through the Industrial Department’s enterprise programs to encourage legal and positive activities.
* Ongoing work on the **Safe City Project**, with an updated Project Director (PD) to improve its functionality.
* **1200 new schools** to be built, alongside a new **air ambulance service** to start within a month.
* **Cultural activities** will be promoted with 2 billion rupees dedicated to cultural initiatives.
* **Construction of a large dam** in Washuk to provide water for industries.
* Plans to **create fruit and vegetable markets** and bus terminals in every district of Balochistan.
* **Development of Quetta city** with modern infrastructure, including a **shuttle train** for commuters.
* Investment in **mineral resources**, particularly in Chagai, where factories are being established.

Additionally, CM Bugti announced plans for a **club for aviation** promotion, and the launch of a major initiative to empower women through the **Pink Scooty Project**, aimed at providing women with the means to become more independent.

The Chief Minister concluded by reinforcing his commitment to the people of Balochistan, promising that these ambitious projects would significantly improve the quality of life for the province’s residents.