In the second quarter of 2024, Balochistan saw an alarming surge in traffic accidents, reflecting the dangerous conditions on the region’s roads. Known for its challenging driving environment due to dilapidated roads and infrastructure, Balochistan saw over a hundred incidents resulting in significant human and material losses, affecting hundreds of families and leaving several dozens with lifelong injuries.
According to recent data collected by The Balochistan Post, there were 170 road accidents reported in this period, resulting in over 145 fatalities and injuries to over 395 individuals. These accidents have affected 521 families, causing immense distress to people across Balochistan.
The statistics reveal a grim reality of road safety in Balochistan. The accidents involved a variety of vehicles, including 57 cars, 34 motorbikes, 27 buses, 16 trucks, 15 trailers, 15 pedestrians, and 11 pickup trucks.
The accidents were distributed to different areas of Balochistan, but the vast majority of them were reported on the infamous Quetta-Karachi highway, known locally as the ‘killer highway’ due to the sheer number of accidents it witnesses every year. The accidents were reported from the following areas:
Mastung: 23
– Khuzdar: 15
– Quetta: 14
– Kech: 13
– Lasbela: 10
– Gwadar: 8
– Chaman: 8
– Sibbi: 7
– Pasni: 5
– Nushki: 5
These figures, although just a snapshot, indicate a complex and pervasive issue. The Quetta-Karachi highway remains a major concern due to its high accident rate. Contributing factors include its inadequate road width, lack of divided lanes, limited medical facilities on the route, and frequent driver negligence.
The highway segment between Quetta and Khuzdar is notably hazardous, with Mastung recording the highest number of accidents. This trend underscores the ongoing challenges faced by travelers on Balochistan’s roads.
The reasons behind the road accidents in Balochistan are complex and interrelated. Many of the region’s roads, severely damaged during the 2022 floods, remain in disrepair. Potholes and uneven surfaces are constant threats to motorists, significantly contributing to accidents.
Additionally, the narrow, single-lane highways that crisscross Balochistan are perilous. Despite repeated calls for road expansion, government response has been slow, leaving drivers to navigate dangerously cramped routes. The lack of proper safety and navigation signage exacerbates the risks, forcing drivers to rely on guesswork and local knowledge.
The absence of traffic engineers in the province means these issues often go unaddressed, with no expert oversight to guide road safety improvements. This problem is compounded by a widespread lack of driving licenses and inadequate driver training, leaving many motorists ill-prepared for the demanding conditions.
Reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding and inattentive driving, are common and often lead to tragic accidents. Long hours behind the wheel contribute to driver fatigue, impairing judgment and reaction times. Moreover, some drivers resort to using drugs and other illegal substances to stay alert, further impairing their faculties.
Mechanical failures, particularly faulty brakes and vehicle overloading, are also significant contributors to road accidents. The use of old, outdated vehicles prone to breakdowns adds another layer of risk. Additionally, Balochistan’s challenging weather conditions frequently reduce visibility, making driving even more hazardous.
Collectively, these factors create a road safety crisis that demands immediate and comprehensive action to protect the lives of those traveling on Balochistan’s highways.