Travel curfew in Balochistan as security worsens
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Apr 9
- 5 min read
In response to escalating security concerns, the government of Balochistan has imposed night-time travel restrictions on major highways, prohibiting public transport from operating between 6 PM and 6 AM.
This measure aims to safeguard travelers amid a surge in militant activities in the region. The imposition of night-time travel restrictions underscores the volatile security situation in Balochistan. While the government seeks to protect its citizens and infrastructure, addressing the root causes of the insurgency, including political and economic grievances, remains crucial for achieving lasting peace in the region.
Balochistan: A region of strategic significance
Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, is located in the southwestern part of the country, sharing borders with Iran, Afghanistan, and the Arabian Sea. Despite its rich reserves of natural gas, copper, and gold, and hosting the strategically significant Gwadar port developed with Chinese investment, Balochistan remains one of the most underdeveloped and volatile regions in Pakistan.
The ongoing conflict
The province has been the epicenter of a prolonged insurgency led by Baloch separatist groups, notably the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). These groups accuse the Pakistani government of political marginalization, economic exploitation, and state repression. Their demands range from greater autonomy to complete independence for Balochistan. This is according to Georgetown Journal.
In recent years, the conflict has intensified, leading to numerous attacks targeting security forces, infrastructure, and foreign nationals, particularly Chinese workers involved in development projects. The BLA has expanded its tactics, including the use of women suicide bombers, and has been involved in cross-border tensions between Iran and Pakistan.
Government's Stance on Security Measures
The ongoing conflict in Balochistan has according to Geo News elicited a range of responses from Pakistani authorities, reflecting the complexities of the situation. In April 2025, Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind addressed the crackdown on the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) protests, emphasizing the need to balance the right to protest with maintaining public safety. He stated, «While the government respects the right to protest, the location and manner of demonstrations must be determined by district authorities.»
Emphasis on Peace for Prosperity
Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail underscored the importance of stability for development, remarking, «A truly prosperous society can only thrive in a secure environment.»
Critique of military-only approaches
Security analysts have cautioned against solely relying on military solutions. An article from Dawn highlighted that «rising threats from Islamist extremists and separatist insurgents present a complex security challenge that cannot be addressed through military action alone.»
Impact on civilians and human rights concerns
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed alarm over the situation, noting «growing unrest in Balochistan, compounded by deteriorating security.»
These perspectives illustrate the multifaceted challenges in Balochistan, highlighting the delicate balance between ensuring security and upholding human rights.
The civilian population in Balochistan has borne the brunt of the conflict. Human rights organizations have reported widespread issues, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings attributed to Pakistani security forces. Families of the missing have organized protests demanding justice, highlighting the profound impact on communities.
Recent developments
In January 2024, tensions escalated when Iran conducted missile strikes in Pakistan's Balochistan province, targeting alleged militant bases. Pakistan condemned the attack, leading to retaliatory strikes and raising concerns about regional stability.
The Pakistani government has since approved comprehensive military operations against separatist groups in Balochistan, aiming to curb the surge in violence. These operations have resulted in significant casualties on both sides, further complicating the security landscape.
Facts about Balochistan
Capital
Quetta is the capital and largest city of Balochistan, the southwestern province of Pakistan. Situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, Quetta stands at an elevation of approximately 1,680 meters (5,510 feet) above sea level, making it the highest major city in Pakistan. The city is often referred to as the «Fruit Garden of Pakistan» due to its numerous fruit orchards and the variety of fruits produced there.
Quetta serves as a significant commercial and communication center, especially given its proximity to the borders with Afghanistan and Iran. The city's strategic location has historically made it a hub for trade and military activities.
In recent times, Quetta has faced challenges related to security and infrastructure development. Despite these issues, it remains a city rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, attracting visitors to its scenic landscapes and vibrant markets.
Geography and location
Balochistan covers 347,190 square kilometers, making up 44% of Pakistan’s total land area. It borders Iran, Afghanistan, and the Arabian Sea. Major cities include Quetta (provincial capital), Gwadar, Turbat, and Khuzdar. The province has a vast, rugged terrain including mountains, deserts, and coastline.
Brief history of Balochistan
Balochistan has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was part of ancient empires like the Achaemenids. The region was later ruled by tribal confederacies before coming under British control in the 19th century.
After Pakistan’s creation in 1947, the princely state of Kalat reluctantly joined the new nation, triggering the first of several Baloch insurgencies. Since then, the province has seen repeated uprisings driven by demands for autonomy and control over its vast natural resources.
The current conflict, ongoing since the early 2000s, remains one of Pakistan’s longest-running internal struggles.
Population
As of recent estimates, Balochistan has around 14 million people, making it the least populated of Pakistan’s provinces. Major ethnic groups include Baloch, Pashtun, Brahui, and Hazara. Many residents live in rural areas with limited access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Economy
Balochistan is rich in natural resources, including natural gas, coal, gold, and copper. Despite its mineral wealth, it remains the poorest province in terms of infrastructure and human development. It contributes significantly to Pakistan’s energy supply, especially from the Sui gas field.
Strategic importance
The port city of Gwadar, developed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is central to Pakistan’s trade and geopolitical strategy. Balochistan's location makes it a key transit point for trade between Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East.
Conflict and insurgency
The province has experienced a prolonged insurgency led by groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which targets security forces and infrastructure, particularly CPEC-related projects. The conflict is driven by demands for political autonomy, control over natural resources, and resistance to military presence.
Human rights issues
Human rights organizations have documented widespread abuses, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Families of missing persons have held protests demanding accountability, and the issue remains a major source of unrest and criticism.
Culture and language
Languages spoken include Balochi, Pashto, Brahui, and Urdu. Balochistan has a rich cultural heritage rooted in poetry, music, and tribal customs. The population is predominantly Muslim, with both Sunni and Shia communities, including the historically persecuted Hazara minority.
