Balochistan’s woes

Balochistan has been affected by severe snow and rainfall. Many parts of the province have received snowfall in years as the dry spell ended but also increased miseries as fourteen people lost their lives and thousands remained trapped in the extreme weather.

Chief Minister Jam Kamal has complained over the federal government’s lack of cooperation during the disaster. Expressing his displeasure over the relief and rescue operations, the chief minister said “Islamabad has left Balochistan alone.” It seems that the PTI government has not given any consideration for the most neglected province.

CM Balochistan expressed disappointment over the attitude of the federal government’s departments, particularly the NDMA and NHA, for ignoring the province and not reaching out during the calamity. Heavy snowfall was predicted and the provincial disaster management was alerted. He criticized the NHA for not clearing blocked highways and said the provincial government was compelled to use its own resources.

These are not unusual circumstances as the freezing cold snap in Balochistan has not only plummeted temperatures, clogged roads, cut off the area from the rest of the country, but brought life to a virtual standstill. Little respite is expected as the cold wave is unlikely to dissipate soon. The miseries of the people are compounded by gas supply disruption and food shortages.

The PTI made several pledges to Balochistan before the general elections but has fallen behind on all promises. The ruling party promised political reconciliation by reaching out to Baloch leaders, but apart from huddling with allies to keep the fragile federal coalition intact, it has yet to take any action. Local government elections in the province have been postponed indefinitely, and except for the Quetta-Zhob highway, there have been no development projects which could benefit Balochistan.

The PTI should demonstrate seriousness about Balochistan as the province has been neglected for far too long. If the ruling party wants to promote growth and development in Balochistan, then it should address the political and economic constraints holding it back. The province holds immense natural resources that should benefit the local people.

Successive governments have remained indifferent to Balochistan’s woes as it offers no incentives to parties seeking power at the Centre. Senate Chairman and National Assembly deputy speaker are currently from Balochistan, but this is inadequate if the PTI government cannot bring peace and prosperity to the largest but most deprived province.