The All-Parties Alliance in Gwadar has intensified its protest on Marine Drive, entering its second day of a sit-in demonstration. Protesters expressed their grievances over restrictions on border trade, which they say is the primary source of livelihood for the local population.
The demonstrators criticized the introduction of a token system at Kantani Hor, a key border trade hub, arguing that it has severely limited employment opportunities and increased unemployment in the region. They demanded the immediate abolition of the token system and called for unrestricted border trade to be allowed.
Highlighting the deprivation of basic facilities, protesters pointed out that despite Gwadar’s critical role in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), its residents still lack access to electricity, clean drinking water, and other fundamental necessities. They described this situation as a grave injustice to the local population.
The demonstrators also condemned the actions of the Pakistan Coast Guard, accusing them of blocking local vehicles involved in the oil trade at Talaar checkpoint. They claimed that these vehicles are forced to remain idle on the main highway for weeks, causing significant disruptions to their livelihood.
Speakers at the protest lamented the dire state of basic human rights and living conditions in Gwadar, stating that the local people are being forced to live in poverty and desperation. They warned that the continued neglect of Gwadar’s population could not only exacerbate their suffering but also harm the future prospects of CPEC.
The protesters vowed to continue their sit-in until their demands for electricity, water, employment, and border trade freedom are met. They emphasized that the resolution of these issues is essential for both the well-being of Gwadar’s residents and the broader success of development projects in the region.