Independent Report
Quetta:
The Balochistan High Court, led by Chief Justice Muhammad Kamran Khan Malakhel alongside Justice Muhammad Najmuddin Mengal, has directed authorities to expedite construction on the Science College–Hockey Chowk–Sariab Railway Crossing road and related infrastructure, insisting that all work be completed within the designated timelines. A detailed progress report was also requested from the relevant officials.
During proceedings, Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Zahid Saleem reported that major activities—including asphalt base courses, service roads, cross drainage systems, and U-turns—are in progress on the Akram Hospital–Imdad Chowk–Hockey Chowk section of the Main Central Road (MCW). Officials stated that the central asphalt road is expected to be ready before Eid-ul-Fitr, while service roads, asphalt wearing courses, and ancillary works are targeted for completion between April 15 and 30, 2026.
The Project Director informed the court that the stormwater drainage system is nearly complete, with 15,675 meters finished out of 15,905 meters, leaving only 230 meters pending. Although the asphalt base course is mostly laid, minor delays have occurred due to gas line relocations at certain points.
Representatives from Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGCL), including Manager Litigation Makhdoom-ur-Rahman and Engineer Sameer Ali, assured the court of prompt completion of gas relocation work. The court instructed the Project Director to immediately coordinate with SSGCL officials on-site to resolve excavation and technical issues and prevent further delays.
Officials also noted that judicial restrictions on stone crushing and asphalt plants around Quetta posed challenges; however, a dedicated asphalt plant has been established on Kach/Hanna Road to support the project. Complaints raised by the SHO Cantonment Police were addressed, with the court directing the Advocate General’s Office and DIG Quetta Range to ensure uninterrupted progress.
In addition, the court reviewed progress on the N-25 Karachi–Chaman highway dual carriageway project. While ongoing work is reportedly on schedule, the Gahi Khan Chowk and Sariab Customs overhead bridges are under a separate C&W Department project, for which progress reports were requested by the next hearing.
The High Court adjourned the case and scheduled the next hearing for March 5, 2026, directing that copies of the order be circulated to all concerned authorities.
