Economic Crisis in Balochistan: Border Trade Restrictions with Iran Cause Unrest

In the border towns of Balochistan's Rakhshan and Makran divisions, Pakistan's strict restrictions on trade with Iran have caused significant turmoil. The closure of border points and limitations on transporting Iranian petroleum products and goods have led to widespread unrest and job losses. The Rakhshan and Makran Border Trade Alliance called for a shutdown in towns like Washuk, Panjgur, and Nokundi, resulting in closed markets, banks, and businesses.

For residents, cross-border trade is crucial as Balochistan's barren landscape offers few agricultural or industrial opportunities. The government's decision to halt trade three days a week and restrict oil transport has pushed families to the brink of poverty. Nokundi faces severe disruptions in essential goods transport, worsening financial losses for traders and residents. Panjgur's trade leaders warn that livelihoods spanning generations are at risk.

Mohammad Sadiq Sanjrani, a former Senate chairman and Balochistan Assembly member, criticized the government's "short-sighted policies," calling the closures an "economic death sentence" for the province. He urged the federal government to adopt modern regulatory systems instead of blanket restrictions, warning that continued economic marginalization could drive disenfranchised youth toward anti-state activities.

Protesters demand an immediate policy review and the reopening of border trade routes to ease economic distress. They stress that these closures have deepened poverty and despair in a region with a fragile economy. The ongoing protests highlight the urgent need for Islamabad to focus on Balochistan's economic stability rather than imposing policies that harm its people's livelihoods.