Amid rising petroleum prices, Balochistan announces a relief package.

In response to rising costs of fuel and regional insecurity, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti launched a comprehensive relief plan to lessen the burden on the populace.

Following a high-level discussion at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on national austerity and public relief measures, the statement was made during a press conference.

In order to give citizens instant travel assistance, Sarfraz Bugti declared that the Green and Pink Bus Services in Quetta and nearby places will be free for a month. Additionally, he announced a 15-day waiver of vehicle and motorcycle registration and transfer payments, encouraging locals to utilise the subsidy.

The Chief Minister highlighted the support for agriculture and transport, stating that there are almost 80,000 registered public and goods transport vehicles in Balochistan. Federal assistance is being sought for public transport, while special subsidies are given to goods transporters.

Through Kisan Cards, the government will give small farmers with up to 12.5 acres Rs 15,000 to pay the cost of a thresher and subsidised diesel during the wheat growing season. Subsidies for cars up to 800cc and motorcyclists are also being considered.

Sarfraz Bugti emphasised that tight oversight of the oil and other markets is in place and that the government will not permit unwarranted price increases in necessities.

He cautioned against taking indiscriminate measures against stockpiling and profiteering. He explained that customs personnel are in charge of stopping non-customs-paid goods at checkpoints, and police will only be concerned with upholding law and order.

The Chief Minister stated that plans to close markets by 8 p.m. and restaurants and wedding venues by 10 p.m. are being explored as part of energy-saving initiatives; final decisions would be made after consulting traders.

He stressed that given the world’s oil crisis and possible energy shortages, these actions are essential.

Sarfraz Bugti pointed out that austerity measures have already been put in place, such as the Chief Minister’s Secretariat operating with 50% fewer employees, cutting back on wasteful spending, auctioning off excess vehicles from the CM House, and progressively introducing electric vehicles.