Traffic accidents claimed more lives than terrorism in Balochistan during 2025, according to official data, highlighting a growing public safety crisis on the province’s highways.
A total of 24,482 traffic accidents were recorded on seven national highways and the M-8 Motorway over the past year, resulting in 415 fatalities and 30,066 injuries.
The Quetta–Karachi National Highway (N-25) has become notorious among commuters and transporters, often referred to as a “killer highway.” The road’s single-carriageway structure, heavy traffic, and poor safety enforcement have led to frequent and often fatal accidents.
Residents have repeatedly called on the government to dualise the Quetta–Karachi highway, warning that delays are costing lives.
Data shows that the Quetta–Islamabad National Highway (N-50) witnessed the highest number of accidents in 2025. A total of 7,647 accidents were reported on the route, leaving 56 people dead and 6,944 injured.
Emergency response services were stretched throughout the year. Rescue 1122 conducted 2,986 emergency OPD operations to provide immediate medical assistance to accident victims across the province.
Moreover, Balochistan’s national highways have witnessed over 77,000 road accidents in the past five years, making them among the most dangerous routes in the country, according to a report released by the Medical Emergency Response Center (MERC) 1122.
Road safety experts warn that without urgent infrastructure upgrades, including dual carriageways, proper signage, and enforcement of traffic laws, accident-related deaths are likely to rise further.
Citizens have urged authorities to prioritize road expansion, improved maintenance, and stricter implementation of traffic regulations, stressing that preventable accidents are claiming more lives than militant violence in the province.
