Key Takeaways
- The Balochistan High Court has issued orders to improve traffic management and civic infrastructure in Quetta.
- Authorities are directed to remove encroachments, protect newly built roads, and clear debris from key areas.
- A new U-turn near Imdad Chowk is not to be constructed as it would worsen congestion.
The Balochistan High Court has issued a series of directives aimed at enhancing traffic management and civic infrastructure in Quetta, according to a constitutional petition filed by Advocate Syed Nazir Agha.
A two-member bench, led by Chief Justice Muhammad Kamran Khan Mulakhail and Justice Muhammad Najmuddin Mengal, heard the case and issued detailed orders during the hearing.
During the session, officials provided a report and video briefing on traffic flow at key locations such as Zarghoon Road, Railway Station Chowk, and Imdad Chowk. The study revealed that 9,144 vehicles pass through Railway Station Chowk daily during peak hours.
The court accepted findings suggesting that constructing a new U-turn near Imdad Chowk would exacerbate congestion. Therefore, it directed authorities to retain the existing traffic model while improving the current U-turn.
Concerns were also raised over clogged drainage chambers on Zarghoon Road and Inskumb Road. The bench ordered immediate removal of debris, garbage, and animal waste from these areas.
The court instructed officials to clear all encroachments, temporary stalls, cabins, and illegal parking along Zarghoon Road. It also warned against digging up newly built roads and footpaths for cable laying or pole installation without prior approval.
In the context of ongoing projects, the bench reviewed work on the Koila Phatak railway crossing and noted that the relevant memorandum of understanding had already been implemented with payment made.
The court expressed concern over congestion near the Frontier Corps checkpoint at Imdad Chowk and called for a faster pace of work on the Sariab Service Road.
