Quetta:Balochistan Governor Sheikh Jafar Mandokhail has unveiled plans for a major energy initiative in the province, involving the installation of 28,000 tube wells. The project, with 70% funding from the federal government and 30% from the Balochistan government, amounts to a total investment of 55 billion Pakistani Rupees. This announcement, made recently by Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif, marks a crucial step in resolving longstanding agricultural issues in Balochistan.
“These tube wells were previously subsidized by the government, costing up to 150 billion Rupees over recent years,” Governor Mandokhail stated during a private TV interview. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, we have addressed a 15-year-old problem for Balochistan’s farmers, representing a revolutionary step forward.”
Emphasizing the need for tax compliance across all sectors to bolster the country’s economy, Mandokhail stressed the importance of infrastructure improvements in border trades to facilitate local populations. He highlighted that while Balochistan covers 43% of Pakistan’s landmass, it receives only 9% of national resources, underscoring the necessity to prevent fund mismanagement at all costs.
Discussing national security, Mandokhail advocated for continuous dialogue with dissatisfied Baloch factions, warning against closing the doors to negotiations. He acknowledged that while external terrorist threats persist, the issue of missing persons in Balochistan remains contentious, with both government officials and accusers denying responsibility.
The Governor concluded by affirming unity within the Muslim League-N party in Balochistan, asserting that leadership decisions would be made in due course. He assured that internal party differences would not disrupt governance, securing the region’s stability amidst ongoing challenges.
