Punjab Transporters Caution About Financial Losses Due to Attacks on Resource Vehicles in Balochistan

Transporters originating from Punjab have issued a stern warning regarding the increasing threats to their vehicles transporting essential resources from Balochistan. They highlighted that repeated attacks on trucks carrying LPG, coal, fuel, and other vital commodities are causing substantial financial losses. These incidents threaten the very viability of transportation operations and could potentially lead to the shutdown of companies operating in Punjab.

During a press conference, the transporters emphasized that Punjab heavily depends on Balochistan for its supply of LPG and coal. However, ongoing highway attacks have made transportation more perilous and expensive. The rising costs and dangers are hampering supply chains and creating uncertainty for businesses reliant on these resources.

The transporters made a direct appeal to the Government of Pakistan, urging the deployment of motorway police in Balochistan. They suggested adopting a policing pattern similar to that of Punjab to ensure the safety of vehicles, drivers, and investments. Their plea underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to safeguard economic activities in the region.

This warning follows a series of violent incidents across different parts of Balochistan. Several vehicles carrying LPG, coal, fuel, and minerals have been set ablaze during highway blockades and targeted attacks. These actions have been carried out by armed groups, complicating the transportation of essential goods through the province.

One such group, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks and blockades across Balochistan, including in Kharan, Quetta, Mastung, Noshki, and Panjgur. The BLA describes these actions as part of an “economic blockade,” aiming to disrupt the flow of resources and exert pressure on the Pakistani state.

In a prior statement, the BLA articulated its broader strategic goal, stating that its campaign is designed to turn Balochistan into an “inevitable economic burden” for Pakistan. The group argued that such economic hardships are necessary to challenge what they describe as the occupying forces and their policies in the region.

Furthermore, the BLA explicitly declared that it would no longer permit vehicles transporting what it labels as “looted Baloch resources and minerals” to pass through key highways. This stance was announced in May, signaling a crackdown on resource transportation, which they seek to control or halt as part of their wider resistance efforts.