The shutter-down strike called by BNP-M on April 7, 2025, saw a lukewarm response across Balochistan, with minimal impact on daily life in many areas. While some shops and businesses in cities like Gwadar, Turbat, and Mastung closed, overall activity continued in several parts of the province. Traffic on roads was reduced in certain spots, but public movement and basic services remained largely unaffected.
BNP-M’s protest efforts, including a long march and sit-in at Lakpass, have struggled to gain widespread momentum despite party chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal’s repeated calls for action.
Read more: Government blocks BNP-M long March to Quetta
Over the past 11 days, government efforts to maintain order have successfully prevented any major disruptions, with security forces ensuring stability in Quetta and surrounding areas.
Attempts by BNP-M to pressure the government through negotiations have also stalled, as stated by BNP leader Quddus Baloch, who admitted no progress had been made. The party’s claims of a strong movement are overshadowed by limited participation and growing public fatigue with prolonged protests.
Despite Mengal’s threats of escalation, the strike illustrates diminishing support for BNP-M’s agenda as the provincial government continues to assert control.
