Hundreds of Pakistani pilgrims, including women and children, are stranded in Quetta due to a government ban on land travel to Iran and Iraq. The federal government’s decision has sparked protests, with pilgrims blocking a major road in the city. Many of them had arrived in Quetta by bus on Sunday night. They were headed for Karbala to take part in the Arbaeen pilgrimage on August 14.
The protest took place at Shohada Chowk on Alamdar Road, an area known for its Shia religious sites. Pilgrims shouted slogans against the government and demanded their right to continue their journey. One protester said they came to Quetta to attend Arbaeen and won’t turn back. Many expressed deep frustration and called the ban unfair and unacceptable.
Protesters also rejected the government’s offer to use air travel as an alternative. They said airline tickets are far too expensive. Most people in the group cannot afford the high costs of flying. They insisted on continuing their journey by road, as is tradition for many religious pilgrims.
The protest was organized in the presence of a Balochistan Shia Conference leader. Pilgrims stated they are determined to reach Karbala, no matter what. Their protest caused a major traffic blockage in Quetta and drew attention from media and local authorities.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed the ban on land travel to Iran and Iraq. He said the federal government made the decision after consulting provincial authorities. However, the stranded pilgrims are still waiting for a solution. Many say they will not leave until the ban is lifted.