(Publish from Houston Texas USA)
(By Syed Sardar Muhammad Khondai Quetta)
The cold response of both the provincial and federal governments has further doubled the worries and suffering of those who incurred losses in this tragic incident. Gul Plaza housed hundreds of shops, and the livelihoods of countless people associated with it have been shattered. For many, it was the sole source of income and sufficient to provide sustenance for thousands of children. Sadly, it must be said that the government of the time has failed to pay attention to this catastrophe, even to the extent of offering moral support and encouragement.
Meanwhile, the Chaman Pak–Afghan border has remained closed for the past three years and has been completely sealed for the last three months. As a result, thousands of unemployed individuals see no alternative means of livelihood. In this backdrop, the recent fire that engulfed Gul Plaza, located in Quetta’s main market, reduced it to ashes within just a few hours.
The matter does not end here. Around the world, governments express solidarity with their citizens in such incidents and provide full support. However, the situation here is quite the opposite. Earlier, a similar tragic incident occurred in Karachi, where at least the Sindh government formed an investigation commission and announced immediate relief.
The same demand and appeal is being made to the Government of Balochistan: at this time, when people’s lives have turned into sheer torment, urgent attention and assistance are needed.
