The Government of Balochistan has advised transporters to avoid traveling at night on Wednesday, November 20.
The directive, issued by the Provincial Transport Authority, applies to routes within Balochistan and connections to other provinces. Officials did not provide a reason for the restriction.
Hundreds of vehicles travel daily between Quetta, Karachi, and other provinces through Balochistan. Some sources suggest the directive may be linked to potential attacks by Baloch armed groups.
November 20 marks the death anniversary of Balach Marri, a prominent Baloch leader who was killed in 2007 during a clash with Pakistani forces near the Afghanistan border.
A local journalist said Baloch armed groups have often carried out attacks on similar anniversaries. These include road blockades, checkpoint operations, and attacks on military installations.
In August this year, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) launched “Operation Herof” on the death anniversary of Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti. Bugti, a prominent Baloch leader, was killed in 2006 during a military operation.
The operation targeted key highways, resource-carrying vehicles, and military installations in several districts, including Bela. The BLA claimed over 50 people were killed in the attack.
More recently, on November 13, Baloch Raaji Aajoi Sangar (BRAS), a coalition of Baloch armed groups, carried out 45 attacks in various parts of Balochistan to mark Baloch Martyrs’ Day.
The government’s order did not mention any specific threats or reasons for the restriction. Officials have yet to comment on whether the directive is linked to concerns about potential attacks by Baloch armed groups.