Concern Grows Over Illegal Shisha Cafés in Quetta as Residents Demand Crackdown

Quetta: Residents, parents, and social activists in Quetta have voiced growing concern over the increasing number of allegedly illegal shisha cafés operating across the provincial capital, calling on the Balochistan government and law enforcement agencies to launch an indiscriminate crackdown.

According to local residents, dozens of shisha cafés are operating openly in areas including Gulistan Road, Shahbaz Town, Jinnah Town, Airport Road, Nawa Killi, Sabzal Road, Hazara Town, Sariab Road, Samungli Road, and Mili Abad. They claim these venues attract large numbers of young people every day, including minors.

Residents also allege that many of the cafés remain open until the early hours of the morning, sometimes as late as 3:00 or 4:00 a.m., causing noise, traffic congestion, and disturbing nearby neighborhoods. They say the situation has raised questions about regulatory oversight and enforcement.

People living in Hazara Town claim that between 30 and 40 shisha cafés are operating in the area, contributing to an increasing trend of shisha smoking among young people, including students. Parents have expressed concern that the growing popularity of these cafés could negatively affect both the health and academic future of the younger generation.

Some residents have alleged that certain cafés are operating under the protection of influential individuals and have further claimed that some police officials receive illegal payments in exchange for allowing the businesses to continue operating. These allegations have not been independently verified, and no official response from the relevant authorities was available at the time of reporting.

Social activists have called for an impartial and transparent investigation into the allegations, urging authorities to take legal action if any misconduct or official negligence is established.

Health experts warn that shisha smoking is not safer than cigarette smoking and may, in some cases, be even more harmful. They say prolonged use can increase the risk of lung, heart, and respiratory diseases and may encourage young people to develop other forms of substance use.

Citizens, parents, and members of civil society have urged the Balochistan government, district administration, police, health authorities, and other relevant departments to take strict action against illegal shisha cafés, enforce operating regulations, prohibit entry for minors, and hold accountable any public officials found to have facilitated unlawful activities.