The Balochistan government has declared a water emergency in Gwadar, suspending all taxes related to water supply. The move comes in response to a worsening crisis that has left residents struggling for access to clean water.
Public Anger Sparks Emergency Measures
Massive protests erupted in the port city as thousands of residents, including women and children, gathered outside the Gwadar Development Authority office. They demanded urgent government action against years of neglect and chronic shortages.
Taking notice, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation. He expressed deep dissatisfaction with the slow execution of previously approved relief measures and directed officials to act immediately.
Bugti Warns of Direct Intervention
“If these measures fail to deliver immediate results, I will personally camp in Gwadar with the Chief Secretary to oversee water supply operations,” Bugti warned. He said the situation had reached a breaking point and required decisive leadership.
Although funds had already been allocated, the Chief Minister criticised the lack of visible progress. He ordered the immediate release of additional funds under the Bridge Financing mechanism to speed up relief work.
Crackdown on Tanker Mafia
Bugti issued strict orders against the tanker mafia, accusing them of exploiting the crisis for profit. He demanded strong enforcement against hoarding and blackmail, stating that such practices would no longer be tolerated.
Reviving Desalination Plants for Long-Term Relief
To ensure a sustainable water supply, the Chief Minister directed officials to prepare a feasibility report for restoring 11 non-functional desalination plants. He stressed the need to bring these facilities back online to stabilise water access in Gwadar.
Calling water access a “fundamental human need, not just an administrative issue,” Bugti urged political parties, institutions, and local bodies to work together. He said the provincial government was developing a comprehensive water management framework to prevent future crises.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary (Planning and Development) Zahid Saleem, senior officials, and local representatives from Gwadar who joined via video link.
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