• Oil Transport Ban: Gwadar authorities impose a complete ban on carrying oil in passenger buses for public safety.

• Plans to introduce coaster buses and regulate fares between Gwadar and Karachi.

• Luxury coaches from Quetta may be introduced to break the transport monopoly.

Gwadar: In a decisive move to ensure public safety, a high-level meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Gwadar, chaired by Assistant Commissioner Mir Jawad Ahmed Zehri. The session, attended by political leaders, civil society representatives, and media personnel, focused on the hazardous practice of transporting oil in passenger buses and the need for stricter regulations.

Officials raised serious concerns over the risks posed by carrying oil in passenger vehicles, leading to a unanimous decision to impose a complete ban on such practices. Transport companies will now face strict inspections of their route permits to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Assistant Commissioner Zehri emphasized that public safety remains the top priority and warned against any pressure tactics by transporters. He also announced that all transport services operating between Gwadar and Karachi must facilitate shuttle services to Lee Market, Karachi, for passenger convenience.

Furthermore, authorities decided to enforce strict adherence to bus schedules, prohibiting unnecessary stops along the route. To regulate fares, it was agreed that ticket prices between Gwadar and Karachi would be set at a reasonable rate. Additionally, discussions were held regarding the introduction of a coaster bus service in Gwadar, similar to Pasni, to enhance travel facilities for passengers.

To expand transportation options for the public, the administration also resolved to invite additional transport companies to operate on the Gwadar-Karachi route. Zehri reaffirmed his commitment to implementing these measures without yielding to external pressures. Any transport company found violating these directives will face strict legal consequences.

Transport Union Reacts, Calls Off Strike Amid Public Interest

In response to the new transportation policies, transporters operating on the Makran route initially announced a strike, citing their concerns over administrative decisions. However, after an extensive discussion at the Karachi terminal, the Transport Union withdrew its strike call, considering the upcoming Ramadan and Eid holidays.

With immediate effect, bus services on the Makran route will resume their regular operations, ensuring uninterrupted travel for passengers.

Public Demand for Better Transport Regulations

The new transport policies have sparked mixed reactions from the public. Citizens argue that if bus fares exceed Rs. 3,000, companies must be obligated to provide insurance and other essential facilities. Additionally, they demand that student and disability discounts be enforced, while passenger buses should strictly avoid transporting cargo and diesel storage.

Some activists, including BNP-Mengal District President Majid Sohrabi, have urged political parties and social organizations to unite under the administration’s supervision to tackle these issues effectively. Labeling the transporters’ reaction as an act of blackmail, Sohrabi stressed the need for Gwadar residents to support the administration’s firm stance.

Authorities have also warned that if transport companies refuse to comply with these regulations, their route permits could be revoked. As an alternative, proposals have been made to introduce luxury coaches from Quetta to break the existing transport monopoly and provide better services to passengers.

With the administration standing firm on its decisions, the coming days will determine how effectively these new measures reshape Gwadar’s transport landscape.

Published in The Gwadar Post, 16 March 2025.