Protests continue in Balochistan against new check posts

Highways in Balochistan remained closed for the tenth consecutive day as transporters continued their walkout against the government’s plan to set up additional checkpoints on vital roads for the safety of travelers following the Nushki killings, Dawn reported.

For over a week, the transporter union has been protesting against the new standard operating procedures of the provincial government, calling for the installation of security pickets on the Quetta-Taftan and coastal routes.

The attack in Noshki, when nine people were abducted and killed by gunmen because of their ethnic origin, served as the impetus for the decision.

Despite a promise by provincial ministers to resolve their differences during a meeting on Wednesday, transporters had gone on strike in protest against the move, and blocked various highways. Due to the demonstration, there was no transportation available for individuals to reach their destination, causing great distress.

The new SOPs have been rejected by transporters, claiming they were made without consulting them.

Since their buses were being inspected at each checkpoint, they demanded that the government remove all new checkpoints.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Post reported that Pakistani security forces have launched a significant military operation in Nushki district. The operation, which began on Wednesday, involves extensive military activities supported by gunship helicopters targeting mountainous areas.

The military action follows a serious incident on April 13 by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a group advocating independence for Balochistan. The BLA blocked the main highway in Nushki, searched vehicles, and killed nine individuals identified from a bus, accusing them of being Pakistani activists.

Munir Baloch, an activist, claimed in a post on Twitter, “Within hours, after Khuzdar, now in Noshki and surrounding areas, aerial bombardment and attacks on innocent Baloch homes in the name of military operations by the state is part of the ongoing genocide. Are part.” Of Baloch in Balochistan.”

Another activist Behram Balkoch alleged in his post on “