CM Bugti's remarks about FWO's performance taken out of context: Balochistan minister

Balochistan Planning Minister Mir Zahoor Ahmad Buledi has clarified that Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s recent comments on the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) were taken out of context. The comments came a week after Bugti acknowledged the FWO's performance issues during a parliamentary session. In response to National Party leader Dr Abdul Malik Baloch's criticism of the contracting process for road projects, Bugti expressed his dissatisfaction with the FWO's performance.

He also noted that roads constructed in his area had deteriorated and accused the organisation of handing projects to smaller subcontractors, resulting in poor execution. Bugti mentioned that the National Highways Authority (NHA) faced security-related challenges as well. Buledi defended the FWO, stating that it had rendered invaluable services for highway construction in Balochistan, including the Hoshab-Panjgur-Surab Highway (N-85) where many lives were lost.

He also highlighted the government's efforts to prioritize infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and youth employment. Buledi criticized certain political opponents for opposing the province's progress and creating negative narratives around infrastructure projects, citing their opposition to several major initiatives.