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Rashakai SEZ rolls out investor-friendly policies to boost investment

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Rashakai SEZ rolls out investor-friendly policies to boost investment

By Ayesha Saba

ISLAMABAD, Feb 7 (Wealth Pakistan): Rashakai Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is rolling out investor-friendly policies, fiscal incentives and reliable utility services to attract local and foreign manufacturers, positioning itself as a key driver of Pakistan’s industrial growth under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Officials say the zone combines tax exemptions, long-term land leases and uninterrupted infrastructure to create a business environment that lowers costs and improves operational certainty for investors.

The SEZ has already allocated 102 acres to 26 enterprises, signalling rising industrial activity and growing investor confidence.

Incentives to reduce startup costs

Talking to Wealth Pakistan, Abdul Hameed, Marketing Manager at the Investment Department of the Rashakai Economic Zone Development and Operation Company, said the zone offers a comprehensive package of incentives designed to ensure ease of doing business and long-term sustainability.

He explained that Rashakai SEZ provides a one-time exemption from customs duties and taxes on the import of capital goods. This concession significantly lowers initial setup expenses for factories and manufacturing units.

In addition, investors can avail a 10-year income tax exemption starting from the commencement of commercial operations.

“This makes the zone highly attractive for both domestic and foreign investors,” Hameed said.

Moreover, businesses receive a 99-year land lease, which offers stability and encourages long-term expansion plans.

One-window facility speeds approvals

To further support investors, the zone operates a one-window service system.

The system functions as a one-stop centre for approvals, documentation and regulatory procedures. As a result, companies can shorten processing times and avoid bureaucratic delays.

Hameed said this streamlined approach improves efficiency and helps investors start operations faster.

At the same time, round-the-clock security arrangements ensure a safe and secure environment for industrial activity.

Growing investor interest

Providing an update on investment trends, Hameed said the response from businesses has been encouraging.

So far, 26 enterprises have secured 102 acres of land within the zone. He added that dozens of Chinese companies are actively exploring partnerships with local firms to establish manufacturing units.

Meanwhile, hundreds of domestic enterprises have also expressed strong interest in setting up operations.

Industry observers say this interest reflects increasing confidence in Pakistan’s special economic zones as reliable production hubs.

Reliable utilities and infrastructure

A major attraction for investors is the availability of uninterrupted utilities.

The SEZ currently offers 160 megawatts (MW) of power supply, which authorities plan to expand to 210MW in the long term. In addition, the zone ensures 33 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) of gas supply to meet industrial demand.

For logistics and storage needs, standardized warehouse facilities covering over 10,000 square metres have already been developed.

Furthermore, an effluent treatment plant with a capacity of 12,000 tons per day supports environmentally sustainable operations and compliance with regulations.

Phased development plan

Rashakai SEZ spans nearly 1,000 acres and is being developed in three phases.

Phase I covers 247 acres, where core infrastructure is already in place. The zone features dedicated internal roads, drainage systems, gas supply lines, 11KV power connectivity and telecom services up to the enterprise level.

It also offers customized workshops, commercial complexes, residential apartments and other supporting facilities to create a complete industrial ecosystem.

Officials say this integrated setup allows companies to operate efficiently within a self-contained environment.

Strategic CPEC advantage

Hameed told Wealth Pakistan that Rashakai SEZ enjoys strategic importance under CPEC, which enhances its attractiveness to Chinese and regional investors.

With modern infrastructure, policy incentives and strong connectivity, the zone is expected to play a central role in boosting exports, creating jobs and promoting regional economic development.

He said the SEZ could become a catalyst for Pakistan’s industrial transformation by supporting value addition and manufacturing growth.

As investment activity accelerates, Rashakai SEZ aims to position itself as one of the country’s leading industrial hubs.

Dedicated secretariat set up to speed up seed approvals

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Dedicated secretariat set up to speed up seed approvals

By Azeem Ahmed Khan

ISLAMABAD, Feb 07 (Wealth Pakistan): The Ministry of National Food Security and Research has streamlined its pest risk analysis and seed approval process to ensure the timely availability of quality seeds across the country. At the same time, it has kept strict regulatory checks in place to maintain safety standards.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the government has taken several administrative and digital measures to speed up seed approvals and reduce procedural delays.

Secretariat formed to fast-track approvals

First, the National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority and the Federal Seed Certification and Registration Department have revised the composition of the Variety Evaluation Committee (VEC). In addition, they have established a dedicated Variety Evaluation Committee Secretariat to handle approvals more efficiently.

Moreover, authorities are digitising the committee’s operations. This step aims to improve transparency, track applications in real time and minimize delays in seed evaluation.

Pest risk analysis remains mandatory

However, official documents clarified that every commodity must still undergo a pest risk analysis before import approval. The timeline largely depends on how quickly exporting countries provide complete technical data.

The assessment examines pest biology, ecology, host range and mitigation measures adopted in the country of origin. It also evaluates possible economic and environmental risks.

Therefore, the process ensures that imported seeds and plant materials do not threaten local crops or ecosystems.

Imports regulated under quarantine rules

Plant and plant material imports are regulated under the Plant Quarantine Rules (PQR) 2019 and the guidelines of the International Plant Protection Convention. Imports are allowed for both commercial and research purposes.

However, commercial shipments require a formal pest risk analysis under Rule 10 of PQR 2019. This scientific evaluation prevents the introduction of quarantine pests and limits the spread of regulated non-quarantine pests.

Clear timelines for clearance

The Wealth Pakistan documents read that completing a pest risk analysis may take several months. In some cases, it can take one to two years, depending on the crop, commodity and exporting country.

Once market access is approved, authorities release consignments within one to two working days. This clearance occurs only after documents are verified and inspections confirm the goods are pest-free, as required under Rules 45 and 46 of PQR 2019.

Special rules for research imports

Meanwhile, imports for research fall under Rule 3 of PQR 2019. Importers must maintain a post-entry quarantine facility to grow or test plant material safely. They must also comply with minimum safety conditions to prevent pest introduction.

If a valid post-entry quarantine licence is available and all requirements are met, officials process applications on the same day after payment of the fee. Similarly, they release goods the same day once inspections confirm compliance.

Pakistan pursues rice export deals with Philippines, China

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Pakistan pursues rice export deals with Philippines, China

By Azeem Ahmed Khan

ISLAMABAD, Feb 5 (Wealth Pakistan): Pakistan is stepping up efforts to expand rice exports to the Philippines and China through government-level negotiations and trade facilitation measures.

Philippines MoU under negotiation

According to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan, a high-level meeting took place between the minister for commerce and the Philippine ambassador to Pakistan. Rice imports from Pakistan remained the main agenda item.

Both sides are negotiating a government-to-government memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the annual export of one million tons of rice over five years. Officials expect the agreement to significantly boost Pakistan’s rice exports to the Philippines.

Pakistan has already shared a draft MoU, while the Philippines has submitted a counterdraft. Consequently, both countries aim to finalize and sign the deal on the sidelines of the second Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting scheduled for February 19–20.

The commerce secretary told the ambassador that Pakistan wants to complete the MoU during the visit of the Trading Corporation of Pakistan team. This timeline will allow the country to participate in tendering planned for February 2026.

China market access in focus

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Commerce has engaged China at the highest diplomatic level to enhance rice exports and explore trade facilitation measures under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA).

During a detailed meeting with the Chinese ambassador on January 19, both sides reviewed progress under Phase I and Phase II of the CPFTA. Although Pakistan’s exports to China have grown steadily, officials believe further expansion remains possible.

Additional concessions proposed

To improve market access, Pakistan submitted a list of priority export items in December 2024, including rice. The government requested additional trade preferences from China to strengthen bilateral trade, according to Wealth Pakistan.

Pending new concessions, Pakistan has proposed interim facilitation measures. These include a waiver of the existing one percent import duty on Pakistani rice and the introduction of a special import quota similar to the 2019–2020 arrangement.

In addition, Pakistan has encouraged Chinese state-owned enterprises, particularly China Oil and Foodstuffs Corporation, to enter long-term procurement agreements with Pakistani suppliers. Officials say these partnerships will strengthen supply chains and help reduce the bilateral trade imbalance.

Overall, the initiatives aim to expand rice exports, secure stable demand, and open new opportunities for Pakistan’s agriculture sector.

CDA to procure five modern vehicle testing units

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CDA to procure five modern vehicle testing units

By Abdul Ghani

ISLAMABAD, Feb 05 (Wealth Pakistan): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved funds to procure five modern vehicle testing units to strengthen vehicle inspections across the federal capital, according to a document available with Wealth Pakistan.

Inspection capacity to increase

The decision forms part of a broader plan to improve the efficiency and reliability of vehicle inspections. As the number of vehicles continues to rise, existing testing units face growing pressure to meet demand. Consequently, inspection delays have increased in recent years.

The five new vehicle testing units will expand CDA’s inspection capacity. They will help the authority conduct timely and thorough vehicle checks. As a result, more vehicles will meet required safety and environmental standards.

Modern technology to speed up checks

The new units feature advanced testing technology. They will reduce inspection time and improve accuracy. Moreover, the updated system will ensure compliance with the latest safety protocols.

Officials expect the faster process to provide greater convenience to the public. At the same time, improved testing will support environmental sustainability by enforcing emission standards more effectively.

Better services for vehicle owners

In addition, the CDA aims to streamline services and cut waiting times for vehicle owners. Many citizens previously faced long queues due to limited facilities. With the new testing units, inspections will become quicker, more efficient, and more user-friendly.

The units will also strengthen enforcement of road safety rules. They will help ensure that vehicles comply with emission limits and fitness standards.

Procurement to complete this fiscal year

The procurement of the five vehicle testing units is expected to finish by the end of the current fiscal year. The CDA said the move reflects its continued commitment to modernizing public services.

Overall, the new facilities will support safer roads and a cleaner urban environment while bringing vehicle inspections in line with international standards.

Late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV: A Life of Faith, Service and Human Development

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Late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV: A Life of Faith, Service and Human Development

By Farooq Awan

His Late Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV will be remembered with deep respect for a lifetime devoted to service, compassion and human development. He dedicated more than six decades to improving lives. He guided his community with care and worked for the welfare of vulnerable people across the developing world.

For 67 years, he served as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. At the same time, he acted as a humanitarian and development leader. He linked faith with action and values with institutions. As a result, millions gained access to education, healthcare, electricity and economic opportunity. His passing on 4 February 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88, marked the end of an extraordinary era of service.

At the heart of his work was a clear commitment. He sought to interpret the faith for the Ismaili Muslim community. He also aimed to improve the quality of life of the people among whom they lived. Guided by the ethical principles of Islam, he built institutions that served humanity without discrimination of faith, race, ethnicity or gender. This approach shaped both his spiritual leadership and his development philosophy.

Early life and education

Prince Karim Aga Khan IV was born on 13 December 1936 in Geneva. He was the eldest son of Prince Aly Khan and Princess Tajuddawlah, née Joan Yarde-Buller. He spent his early childhood in Nairobi, Kenya. Later, he studied at the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland. He graduated from Harvard University in 1959 with a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours in Islamic history. This education prepared him for the responsibilities he would soon assume.

Becoming the Imam

On 11 July 1957, at the age of 20, he succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III. He became the 49th hereditary Imam and spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community. He then led the community for the next 67 years, a period marked by major global and social change.

In the same year, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II granted him the title “His Highness,” following the tradition established for earlier Aga Khans. The hereditary title “Aga Khan,” meaning “Commanding Chief,” dates back to the 19th century Persian monarch Fath Ali Shah.

As Imam, he guided his community in both spiritual and material matters. He believed these two aspects of life were connected and complementary. The Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, commonly known as Ismailis, belong to the Shia branch of Islam. They number about 12 to 15 million people and live in more than 35 countries. Under his leadership, they embraced pluralism, built bridges of peace and contributed to the societies in which they lived.

Aga Khan Development Network

One of his most significant achievements was the establishment of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Guided by Islamic ethical principles, he created this network to improve living conditions and opportunities in some of the poorest and most vulnerable regions of the developing world.

The AKDN is a group of private, international and non-denominational agencies. Today, it employs approximately 96,000 people and operates in 30 countries. Its work covers education, healthcare, rural development and culture in the not-for-profit sector. It also works in financial services, infrastructure, telecommunications, industry and tourism.

The Network’s impact is wide and measurable. Each year, it generates electricity for 10 million people. It provides healthcare to 5 million people. It educates 2 million students. In addition, it hosts 5 million visitors at its parks and gardens.

The AKDN includes two universities, more than 200 schools and over 700 health facilities. These institutions show his belief that lasting progress requires strong systems and long-term partnerships with governments and communities.

Commitment to education and culture

Education remained one of his highest priorities. In 1983, he established the Aga Khan University as Pakistan’s first private, internationally chartered university. The university houses leading faculties in medicine, nursing and education. He later founded the University of Central Asia in partnership with regional governments to support social and economic development, especially in high mountain societies. Through these initiatives, he expanded access to quality education and professional training.

He also valued culture and heritage. Through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, he established the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, dedicated to Muslim civilisations. He founded the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, which distributes prizes totalling US$1 million every three years. The award recognises excellence in architecture, planning, preservation and landscape design. These efforts reflected his view that culture and heritage are essential to human dignity.

Personal interests and recognition

Beyond his institutional work, he maintained several personal interests. He was an accomplished competitive skier and represented Iran in the 1964 Winter Olympics. Continuing a family tradition, he became the owner and operator of one of the world’s most successful horse racing and breeding operations. He also pursued a lifelong passion for yachting and helped found the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, which promotes ocean conservation and marine preservation.

Because of his contributions to human development, he received numerous decorations, honorary degrees and awards from institutions and nations around the world. In 2018, at the invitation of the Government of Portugal, he established the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon as the global headquarters of the Imamat.

A lasting legacy

His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s life stands as a clear example of faith in action. He combined spiritual guidance with practical development work. He built institutions that continue to serve millions of people. His legacy of service, compassion and human development will endure for generations to come.

Price adjustment mechanisms boosted as NHA projects costs soar

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Price adjustment mechanisms boosted as NHA projects costs soar

By Muhammad Faisal Kaleem
ISLAMABAD, Feb 03 (Wealth Pakistan) – The Planning Commission has raised the ceiling for the variable portion of the price adjustment formula by up to 70% for construction materials used in National Highway Authority (NHA) projects, aiming to protect contractors from sharp cost increases and ensure timely completion of road schemes.

According to a document available with Wealth Pakistan, the move comes after an unprecedented rise in the prices of key construction inputs.

Why the adjustment was needed

Officials said the existing price structure no longer reflected market realities. Over the past year, the costs of diesel, steel, cement, bitumen and labour have increased significantly. As a result, contractors faced mounting financial pressure.

To address this issue, the government revised the price adjustment formula included in FIDIC-based contracts. The formula contains a fixed portion and a variable portion. The variable component uses weightages of materials that directly influence overall project costs.

Policy framework already in place

Meanwhile, a senior NHA official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Wealth Pakistan that the decision follows a policy introduced last year.

“The NHA executive board approved a framework for incorporating price adjustment provisions in development contracts,” he said.

Under this policy, the authority defined standard operating procedures and introduced multi-tier evaluations to ensure transparency and accountability.

Role of engineering and economic bodies

During project execution, the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) guidelines serve as the benchmark for all claims. Contractors can use a structured mechanism to seek adjustments, although interest payments remain excluded.

Furthermore, several national economic bodies review and approve projects depending on their scale and nature. These include the Planning Commission, National Economic Council (NEC), Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, and Council of Common Interests (CCI).

Step-by-step claim process

Under the revised system, the contractor first submits a comprehensive claim to the project engineer. The engineer evaluates it according to PEC criteria and forwards the findings to the project director.

Next, a zonal committee — comprising the NHA member zone, GM project, accounts director and project director — reviews the case and recommends adjustments.

Afterward, the employer’s review committee examines the proposal. This body includes members from engineering, planning, procurement, budgeting and coordination wings.

Finally, the NHA chairman assesses the financial impact and sends the case to the executive board. The Divisional Development Working Party, Central Development Working Party, or ECNEC then grants final approval and allocates funds.

Relief for contractors

Officials said the revised formula aims to provide temporary relief to contractors struggling with volatile markets. In particular, sharp increases in steel, cement and fuel prices had disrupted project budgets.

Moreover, delays in earlier approvals often slowed construction and triggered disputes between contractors and the NHA. The new framework seeks to reduce such litigation and keep projects on schedule.

Focus on accountability

The Planning Commission stressed that stronger monitoring would accompany the enhanced variable portion. Authorities will verify each claim against documented price indices and quantities to prevent misuse.

Officials added that the decision should restore contractor confidence and support smoother execution of strategically important highway projects across Pakistan. However, they warned that consistent implementation remains essential to achieve the policy’s intended impact.

CDA allocates Rs200m for land payments in Islamabad’s Sector C-15

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CDA allocates Rs200m for land payments in Islamabad’s Sector C-15

By Abdul Ghani
ISLAMABAD, Feb 03 (Wealth Pakistan): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has allocated Rs200 million to clear pending land payments to affectees in Islamabad’s Sector C-15, aiming to speed up compensation and resolve long-standing claims, according to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan.

The authority plans to release the funds during the current fiscal year. Officials say the move will help process applications faster and reduce delays faced by landowners.

C-15 payments to be expedited

CDA officials confirmed that most verification work in Sector C-15 has already been completed. Therefore, the newly allocated Rs200 million will directly support swift disbursement once landowners submit the required documents.

They said the authority wants to ensure timely compensation and avoid further backlog in the sector.

Delays persist in H-16 and I-17

However, payment challenges remain in other parts of Islamabad. In Sector H-16, outdated satellite imagery and complex verification procedures have slowed the settlement process.

Out of Rs4,135 million allocated for H-16, CDA has paid 61%, while more than Rs2.6 billion remains pending.

Similarly, Sector I-17 shows better progress but still faces hurdles. Authorities have disbursed 85% of the Rs5,154 million allocation, yet Rs945 million awaits legal clearance.

Legal hurdles slow compensation

Officials said multiple court cases continue to delay payments. Several landowners have filed writ petitions and intra-court appeals, which require additional scrutiny before funds can be released.

As a result, the compensation process often takes longer than planned.

CDA pledges transparency

Despite these challenges, the CDA says it remains committed to fair and transparent compensation. The authority is working closely with the Islamabad High Court to ensure all payments comply with legal requirements.

Officials added that they aim to settle remaining disputes quickly and complete outstanding payments across affected sectors.

Pakistan’s mobile phone industry braces for 5G rollout by mid-year

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Pakistan’s mobile phone industry braces for 5G rollout by mid-year

By Muhammad Luqman
LAHORE, Feb 3: Pakistan’s mobile phone industry is preparing for the launch of next-generation 5G services by the middle of the year, as manufacturers upgrade hardware, software and production plans to meet rising demand.

Local manufacturing gains momentum

Over the past few years, the mobile phone industry in Pakistan has emerged as one of South Asia’s key manufacturing success stories. More than 30 local assembly units now produce nearly 30 million handsets every year.

“Local assembly and manufacturing capabilities have strengthened significantly, and producers of leading brands have already aligned their roadmaps with next-generation technologies,” Zeeshan Mianoor, Chief Executive Officer of Inovi Telecom, told Wealth Pakistan.

Ecosystem must move together

He said 5G readiness requires coordination across the entire ecosystem. Although handset makers appear prepared, the country still needs timely spectrum allocation, a phased network rollout and affordable pricing.

“When these elements move in tandem, Pakistan can fully capitalise on 5G, especially in the mobile phone sector,” he said.

Moreover, many smartphones currently assembled or sold in Pakistan already support key 5G frequency bands expected to operate locally. However, most of these devices fall into the mid- to high-price segment, starting at around Rs75,000.

Adoption to grow gradually

Zeeshan expects demand for 5G phones to grow steadily rather than surge overnight. Early users in large urban centres such as Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad will likely adopt first, as operators plan to introduce coverage there initially.

Later, adoption should expand once consumers experience faster speeds and lower latency. At the same time, cheaper devices and easier financing options will encourage mass uptake. He noted that Pakistan’s young and digital-first population provides strong long-term growth potential.

Hardware upgrades essential

He clarified that 5G cannot run on software updates alone. Instead, manufacturers must install specialised hardware, including 5G-capable chipsets, antennas and radio frequency components.

Therefore, companies will introduce new or upgraded 5G models while continuing to supply 4G devices for price-sensitive buyers.

“This dual strategy ensures inclusion and consumer choice during the transition period,” he said, adding that production volumes will match network rollout timelines and market demand.

Policy clarity remains critical

Zeeshan stressed that widespread 5G adoption depends not only on handset availability but also on regulatory clarity, spectrum readiness and well-defined rollout frameworks. Strong coordination among these areas, he added, will ensure smooth adoption and long-term sustainability.

He also said local production of 5G-capable devices could boost Pakistan’s competitiveness in regional and emerging markets.

“With consistent quality standards, certifications and cost competitiveness, 5G manufacturing can strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global supply chain over time,” he said.

Manufacturers expect gradual gains

However, industry leaders expect benefits to appear in phases. Mian Abdul Rehman, Chairman of the Pakistan Mobile Phone Manufacturers Association, told Wealth Pakistan that only 20 to 30 percent of manufacturers may initially benefit from the new technology.

He added that 5G-compatible handsets could account for about 20 percent of total sales in the early stage, with the share rising gradually.

Prices will also remain higher at first. According to him, 5G phones may cost Rs5,000 to Rs15,000 more than current models. In some cases, the difference could reach Rs20,000 to Rs30,000.

Abandoned Balochistan

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Abandoned Balochistan

Salman Saleem

Balochistan’s long-standing grievances and structural challenges have persisted since its annexation, leaving deep and lasting effects on its people. Political unrest continues to destabilise communities, particularly in conflict-affected areas. At the same time, weak institutions, poor social indicators, and repeated human rights concerns have compounded the hardship faced by ordinary citizens.

Despite its vast natural wealth, including copper reserves and flagship projects such as Saindak and Reko Diq, the province still struggles to provide even basic necessities. While many regions of the world addressed similar challenges during the twentieth century, their persistence in Balochistan presents a troubling picture that resembles a prolonged period of neglect.

Infrastructure and Road Safety Crisis

One of the most visible manifestations of this neglect is the province’s fragile road infrastructure. Poorly maintained highways and limited safety mechanisms have contributed to an alarming number of traffic accidents.

According to data from the Medical Emergency Response Center (MERC) 1122, between October 2019 and September 2025, more than 77,826 road accidents were reported across Balochistan. These incidents resulted in at least 1,743 deaths and over 103,900 injuries. Most accidents occurred on major national highways, including the N-25, N-50, N-85, and N-70, highlighting the scale of the crisis and the urgent need for infrastructure reform.

Growing Health and Cancer Burden

Alongside infrastructure failures, Balochistan faces a serious public health challenge. The province has witnessed a growing cancer burden, with breast cancer emerging as one of the most prevalent diseases among women.

Between 2020 and 2022, regional health records documented around 6,500 cancer cases. However, local estimates suggest that the province may be experiencing between 20,000 and 22,000 new cases each year. Limited healthcare facilities, delayed diagnoses, and lifestyle-related risk factors, such as tobacco use and poor nutrition, have worsened the situation.

Emerging evidence also points to environmental contamination as a contributing factor. Exposure to heavy metals, chemical residues, and improperly managed hazardous waste, including remnants linked to military activity, may be increasing health risks. However, the absence of comprehensive cancer surveys means official data for the period from 2023 to 2025 remains unavailable.

Lack of Healthcare Infrastructure

These trends underline the urgent need for public health interventions. Strengthened early detection programmes, targeted awareness campaigns, and expanded diagnostic and treatment facilities are essential.

Yet, the prospects remain bleak. Balochistan currently lacks a dedicated cancer hospital, leaving patients dependent on distant facilities in other provinces. As a result, many cases go undiagnosed or untreated, further deepening health inequalities.

Economic Marginalisation and Poverty

The hardships faced by the population reflect a broader reality of weak governance and institutional inefficiency. Extreme poverty, unemployment, and low household incomes continue to shape the socio-economic landscape.

Despite abundant natural resources, including natural gas, coal, copper, gold, marble, and gypsum, the economic benefits rarely reach local communities. Revenue generated through extraction is largely centralised, while only a limited share is allocated to the province. This allocation remains insufficient to address development needs or ensure economic stability.

As a result, local populations bear the environmental and social costs of extraction without enjoying its benefits. The absence of transparent revenue-sharing mechanisms and meaningful local participation has reinforced long-standing grievances and mistrust toward state institutions.

Water Crisis and Humanitarian Concerns

Adding to these challenges is a severe crisis in access to clean drinking water. More than 85% of Balochistan’s population struggles to obtain safe water for daily use. Even coastal cities such as Gwadar face chronic shortages, forcing residents to rely on distant, unreliable, and often unsafe sources.

Prolonged exposure to contaminated water has contributed to the spread of waterborne diseases. This reality stands in sharp contrast to Gwadar’s portrayal as a global investment hub, with projects valued at more than $62 billion. While development narratives promise transformation, many residents continue to search for something far more basic: a single drop of clean water.

A Province in Need of Attention

Balochistan’s challenges are not isolated incidents but symptoms of long-term structural neglect. Without inclusive development, institutional reform, and equitable resource distribution, these crises will continue to deepen.

Addressing them requires more than policy statements. It demands political will, transparent governance, and a commitment to ensuring that development benefits reach those who have remained on the margins for far too long.

Kitab Karwan: A Journey of Books and Ideas

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Kitab Karwan: A Journey of Books and Ideas

Mahnoor Majeed

The term Kitab Karwan itself reflects its purpose. It literally means the “journey of books.” This journey symbolises the movement of knowledge, awareness, and ideas that help societies grow, survive culturally, and remain intellectually alive.

Throughout history, books have shaped civilisations. They carry stories, values, and solutions to social, cultural, and religious challenges. Around the world, many organisations work to promote reading and learning. In Balochistan, one such effort is led by the Balochistan Students Action Committee (BSAC).

Promoting Knowledge in Marginalised Areas

The BSAC has played an important role in encouraging a book-centred culture in Balochistan. It organises reading sessions and sets up book stalls in different areas of the province. These initiatives aim to create an informed and thoughtful society through access to books.

Most importantly, BSAC book stalls offer material that discusses social, cultural, and religious issues. These books encourage dialogue, critical thinking, and awareness. For students in rural and remote areas, Kitab Karwan provides rare access to books that would otherwise be difficult to find.

Barriers to Intellectual Freedom

Despite its peaceful and educational purpose, Kitab Karwan continues to face serious obstacles. Instead of being appreciated, organisers are often harassed. In some cases, they have been detained rather than honoured for their efforts.

Reports in the media have highlighted incidents where book stalls were shut down without clear justification. Not only were organisers targeted, but books were also confiscated. This has created fear among citizens and discouraged public participation in intellectual activities.

Such incidents have been reported in several parts of Balochistan, including Turbat, Gwadar, Khuzdar, and Dera Bugti. In most cases, no logical or legal reason was presented for these actions.

Constitutional Rights and Legal Concerns

In contrast, the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees freedom of expression and the right to education. These rights include access to books and the ability to share ideas peacefully. Book stalls, therefore, fall well within the scope of constitutional protection.

Restricting book stalls directly undermines these fundamental rights. It limits freedom of expression, blocks access to education, and weakens intellectual development. Such actions contradict existing laws and harm the cultural and academic progress of society.

A Call for Intellectual Space

Books are essential tools for learning and awareness. Limiting access to them does not strengthen society; instead, it creates ignorance and fear. Kitab Karwan represents hope for an informed and thoughtful future, especially for Balochistan’s youth.

Protecting such initiatives is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility. A society that restricts books risks silencing its own future.

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