Balochistan Province

Quetta | ReNews Pakistan
A 5.6‑magnitude earthquake was recorded 86 kilometres northeast of Khuzdar in Balochistan on Friday, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) confirmed. The seismic event was detected at a shallow depth, prompting tremors felt across Khuzdar and neighbouring districts.
According to the PMD, the earthquake’s epicentre was located in a sparsely populated region, and no immediate reports of significant structural damage or casualties have been received from local authorities. The department issued a public advisory urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow earthquake safety protocols, including avoiding unstable structures and staying away from slopes or cliff edges immediately after tremors.
Local administrations in Khuzdar, Kalat, Mastung, and adjacent districts confirmed they are conducting ground‑level assessments of buildings, infrastructure, and utilities as a precautionary measure. Emergency response teams were placed on standby to assist with any investigations or needs that arise in remote settlements. Seismologists noted that Balochistan lies in a tectonically active zone due to the complex interaction of the Indian and Eurasian Plates, making the region prone to frequent seismic activity. Historic records indicate that similar magnitude events have occurred in and around the province, underscoring the importance of preparedness and resilient building practices in both rural and urban areas.
Provincial disaster management authorities reiterated that residents along main transport corridors and in settlement clusters should follow guidance from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and local district disaster management units for updates, safety tips, and emergency contact information.
The PMD continues to monitor aftershocks and will issue further updates if additional seismic activity is detected.

Quetta | ReNews Pakistan
The Quetta Traffic Police have initiated a citywide crackdown against vehicles with tinted or blackened windows, issuing challans during enforcement operations carried out across key urban areas, in compliance with directives from the High Court.
According to traffic officials, the campaign is aimed at strengthening public safety, ensuring transparency in traffic movement and improving overall law enforcement monitoring. Tinted windows are considered a security concern as they obstruct visibility and complicate identification during routine checks and surveillance.
Special teams conducted snap-checking and inspections on major roads, commercial centres, and security-sensitive zones of the city. Vehicles found in violation were fined on the spot, while some owners were directed to remove or replace tinted glass immediately to comply with regulations.
Authorities stated that the operation forms part of broader efforts to maintain urban order and enforce traffic laws uniformly across Quetta. Enhanced monitoring and road discipline are expected to contribute to safer mobility and better management of public spaces.
Urban security experts note that clear vehicle windows assist law enforcement agencies in quicker identification, reduce misuse of vehicles for unlawful activities, and support a safer and more regulated traffic environment.
Traffic police have urged citizens to follow legal requirements, avoid the use of prohibited tinted glass, and cooperate with authorities to help create a secure and organized urban setting.

Quetta | ReNews Pakistan
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has stated that improved traffic management and the implementation of the proposed traffic plan in Quetta will bring significant and transformative changes to the city’s traffic system. Addressing the second meeting of the Balochistan Traffic Engineering Bureau Board, he highlighted that the provincial government has initiated a comprehensive and organized strategy aimed at providing residents with enhanced urban mobility and elevating the overall standard of living.
During the meeting, officials presented a briefing on the proposed traffic plan for Quetta, and key decisions were approved. The Chief Minister directed that all projects under Phase One be completed by May 2026, while Phase Two of the plan should be finalized promptly, with the corresponding action plan prepared for implementation.
He emphasized that recruitment of personnel should follow contractual arrangements while ensuring merit and transparency, and that a digital AI-based system should be adopted for this purpose. The SSP Traffic was instructed to ensure effective implementation of the plan, with special focus on enhancing traffic monitoring and signal systems at major intersections.
The Chief Minister noted that the interest and collaboration of internationally renowned consultants reflects confidence in Balochistan’s traffic management vision. Under the plan, synchronized traffic signals will be installed at key intersections, and certain roads will be designated as one-way to streamline traffic flow.
The meeting also discussed measures for traffic flow, road safety, control, and monitoring, along with other essential actions. Provincial ministers, the Chief Secretary, secretaries, the Commissioner of Quetta Division, SSP Traffic, and the Director General of Balochistan Traffic Engineering Bureau, along with other officials, participated and reviewed actionable steps for completing the traffic plan.
The Chief Minister stated that these measures are critical for enhancing urban mobility and improving traffic flow in Quetta. The initiative is expected to not only improve commuter services but also support the development of the city’s infrastructure and overall urban planning framework.