Quetta-Zhob Long-Distance Buses Face Fitness Crackdown as Authorities Strengthen Safety Oversight

Independent Report

Quetta, February 23: A joint inspection team, headed by Provincial Transport Secretary Muhammad Hayat Kakar and Secretary of the Balochistan Transport Authority Waheed Sharif, carried out comprehensive fitness and safety checks on long-route buses operating on the Quetta–Zhob corridor. The team included motor vehicle examiners, the Superintendent of the Transport Authority, and representatives from the Pakistan Transport Authority (PTA).

The inspection targeted buses run by Al-Azeez, Al-Yousuf, and Al-Shaib companies. While most vehicles were cleared for operation, Al-Azeez Transport bus number LES-7799 was found unfit and barred from service. The company has been given one week to obtain a valid fitness certificate, failing which the bus’s route permit will be suspended.

In addition, the Superintendent of the Transport Authority issued stern warnings to all operators along the route regarding poor cleanliness and inadequate hygiene standards in their buses.

Officials confirmed that the Balochistan Transport Authority intends to implement monthly inspections of vehicle permits and fitness certificates, with plans to extend this rigorous oversight program gradually to other provincial routes to ensure passenger safety and service standards.