Independent Report
QUETTA: The Government of Balochistan has imposed a 15-day ban on the transportation, sale, purchase, supply and distribution of nitrogenous fertilizers across the province as part of enhanced security measures aimed at preventing their potential misuse in the manufacture of explosive materials.
According to an official notification, the decision has been taken in view of the prevailing law and order situation to safeguard public life and property and prevent the use of such fertilizers in subversive and terrorist activities. The restriction has come into immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.
An order issued by the Directorate General of Agriculture (Extension), Balochistan, states that the ban applies to all nitrogenous fertilizers, including urea, calcium ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate and potassium nitrate. The sale, purchase, transportation, supply and distribution of these products have been suspended throughout the province.
The notification further states that, after the restriction period, the competent authority will issue written instructions outlining the future course of action. During this period, the provincial government will formulate standard operating procedures (SOPs) to regulate the sale, purchase and distribution of nitrogenous fertilizers.
Authorities have also directed all dealers, distributors and other stakeholders to maintain complete records and inventories of their existing fertilizer stocks until further instructions are issued, ensuring effective monitoring and regulatory oversight.
