QUETTA:* Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the immediate deployment of Frontier Corps (FC) personnel in Balochistan’s Rakhshan Division to establish a dedicated security corridor aimed at protecting the province’s vast mineral resources and ensuring a secure environment for investors.
The decision was taken during the Provincial Apex Committee meeting held in Quetta under the National Action Plan (NAP). The meeting was attended by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, federal ministers, and senior officials.
According to officials, the proposed security corridor will include additional FC wings, highway security checkpoints, a modern surveillance grid, and strengthened border posts to improve security in mineral-rich areas.
Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan was blessed with enormous natural resources, especially minerals, and maintaining peace in Balochistan was essential to preserve the confidence of local and international companies working on mining and development projects.
The premier praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the armed forces for their efforts against terrorism and appreciated the Balochistan government for promoting transparency and merit in administrative appointments.
Officials briefing the committee said all state institutions were actively working to eliminate terrorism. They added that several youth welfare and skills development programmes were underway across the province.
The meeting was informed that no polio case had been reported in Balochistan since November 2024. Officials also highlighted progress in healthcare projects, including cancer institutes, dialysis centres, and trauma centres.
Authorities further stated that 99 percent of schools across Balochistan were operational, while a solar energy initiative had benefited more than 15,000 households and generated savings of approximately Rs105 billion.
Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering Balochistan’s youth through scholarships, vocational training, and digital skills programmes.
During his visit to Quetta, the prime minister also addressed faculty members and student officers at the Command and Staff College, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression.