Balochistan for the better

This refers to the letter, ‘The real solution’ by Z A Gulzar (Sep 15). It is true that Balochistan remains the most underdeveloped and deprived provincial unit in Pakistan. In my view, a series of strategic steps should be undertaken to enhance the province’s overall development and functionality. First, standards in education and healthcare must be raised to ensure that these fundamental sectors better serve the people. Second, local governments (LG) should be installed in every district, tasked with specific, actionable goals mapped out in a comprehensive roadmap. This would allow for targeted improvements in quality of life across districts, even within the constraints of limited funding.

Third, professionals from other provinces should be encouraged to contribute their skills in Balochistan, fostering cooperation between locals and non-locals to support the region’s vast expanse. Attacks on non-locals undermine such efforts and only hinder Balochistan’s progress. Fourth, there must be zero tolerance for corruption. Given Balochistan’s funding challenges, any form of misuse or mismanagement of state resources should be met with strict legal action to prevent further erosion of trust and resources. Lastly, influential Baloch civil society figures, such as Dr Mahrang Baloch, should be granted meaningful roles in development initiatives. Utilising local expertise is essential to effectively address the province’s unique challenges.

Abbas R Siddiqi

Lahore