ISLAMABAD: The Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) has raised alarm over the suspension of border trade, prolonged internet shutdowns, worsening law and order, and harassment of traders at security checkpoints— issues it says have already forced thousands of businessmen to relocate outside Balochistan or abroad.
In a meeting with traders on Wednesday, QCCI President Haji Muhammad Ayub Marriani, Senior Vice President Haji Akhtar Kakar and Vice President Engineer Mir Wais Khan Kakar warned that if the government does not immediately consult all stakeholders and take corrective action, the business community will be compelled to launch a protest movement.
Chamber officials criticised the Balochistan Assembly for debating the increase in air ticket prices while the matter is already before the High Court. They said the real challenges facing the people and businesses include lawlessness, internet outages, unnecessary roadside checks, severe traffic congestion, and chronic gas and electricity shortages.
They added that a formal request for a meeting with Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has been submitted but no response has been received. The chamber urged the chief minister to urgently engage with the business community and address their grievances.
QCCI leaders said over 4,000 businessmen have already shifted operations due to the deteriorating environment, and more are preparing to leave. They warned that failure to act will leave them no choice but to start a protest campaign, holding the government fully responsible.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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