Quetta: ReNews Pakistan
Differences of opinion surfaced in the Balochistan Assembly over the provincial government’s decision to create new divisions and districts, with opposition members expressing reservations over administrative restructuring while the government defended the move as part of governance reforms.
Former chief minister Nawab Muhammad Aslam Raisani opposed the inclusion of Kachhi district in Sibi division and Mastung in Quetta division, stating that such administrative changes could affect the province’s historical and geographical context.
He warned that alterations in administrative boundaries may lead to concerns related to employment opportunities, educational quotas, and distribution of resources.
Provincial Minister Sardar Abdul Rehman Khetran also highlighted Mastung’s historical significance, stressing that regional background and local sensitivities should be considered before implementing administrative changes. He further questioned the formation of the Upper Dera Bugti district and the inclusion of certain areas within its jurisdiction.
Presenting the government’s stance, Provincial Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar said the establishment of new divisions and districts was aimed at improving administrative efficiency, strengthening governance outreach, and accelerating development activities. He rejected opposition claims and maintained that decisions were taken in the broader public interest.
Provincial Minister Zahoor Buledi described the new administrative units as a step toward improved governance, stating that decentralisation would help address local issues more effectively and enhance monitoring of development initiatives.
During the session, several lawmakers emphasised the need for broader consultation and consensus-building among stakeholders to ensure administrative stability and institutional harmony across the province.

Quetta | ReNews Pakistan
The Balochistan High Court suspended the implementation of the Mines and Minerals Act until the next hearing, while directing the provincial government to submit a comprehensive response regarding the challenged legislation.
The interim order was issued during the hearing of petitions questioning various provisions of the newly enacted law. Petitioners argued that certain clauses required judicial scrutiny, raising concerns related to administrative authority, regulatory procedures, and stakeholder consultation.
During proceedings, the court observed that the matter involved significant legal and governance implications and therefore warranted detailed examination before the law could remain operational. Consequently, the court granted interim relief by halting enforcement of the act until further orders.
The provincial government was instructed to present its official stance and relevant legal justification at the next hearing to assist the court in determining the constitutional and administrative aspects of the legislation.
Legal observers noted that the suspension temporarily pauses regulatory actions under the new framework and maintains the status quo until judicial clarity is achieved. The case is expected to shape the future regulatory structure governing resource management and institutional oversight in the province.

Quetta : ReNews Pakistan
The Balochistan government has approved plans to establish a modern Safe City Authority to strengthen provincial security infrastructure and meet contemporary technological needs. The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Quetta, where progress on existing Safe City initiatives was reviewed in detail.
Officials said the new authority will oversee the installation of state-of-the-art surveillance cameras and digital monitoring systems in major urban centers across the province. A centralized command and control center will be activated, enabling round-the-clock monitoring of highways, critical infrastructure, crowded public spaces, and sensitive sites.
Chief Minister Bugti directed authorities to remove administrative, technical, and financial hurdles immediately and accelerate project implementation. He assured that the provincial government will provide both financial and technical resources to ensure timely completion.
Bugti described the project as a significant milestone for Balochistan, noting that the province will be the second in the country, after Punjab, to introduce such an advanced Safe City system. Officials stated that the initiative is expected to reduce crime rates, improve traffic management, enhance emergency response times, and strengthen coordination among law enforcement agencies.
The meeting was attended by senior provincial officials, including the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Inspector General of Police, and principal secretaries from relevant departments.
This move is part of broader efforts to modernize public safety infrastructure, integrate technology into urban security management, and provide citizens with enhanced protections in key provincial cities.