QUETTA: The Government of Balochistan on Wednesday officially notified the bifurcation of Chagai district, a major administrative change in the province’s setup.
The notification, issued by the Administration Branch of the Balochistan Revenue Department on October 28, 2026, details the creation of a new district, “West Chagai,” alongside the reorganization of the existing Chagai district. Nok Kundi has been designated as the headquarters of the newly formed West Chagai district.
This decision, aimed at streamlining administrative functions and improving governance, follows the exercise of powers conferred under Section 6 of the Balochistan Land Revenue Act, 1967.
West Chagai district, incorporated into the Rakhshan Division, will encompass the administrative areas of Taftan and Mashkel, in addition to Nok Kundi.
This new district structure includes the tehsils of Taftan, Mashkel, and Nok Kundi.
The notification further clarifies that Dalbandin will continue to serve as the headquarters of the remaining Chagai district.
Within the reorganized Chagai district, the administrative divisions will comprise the sub-divisions of Dalbandin and Chagai, encompassing the tehsils of Dalbandin, Chagai, and Yak Mach, as well as a newly established sub-tehsil, Charsar, with its headquarters at Padag.
Furthermore, the notification confirms that Washuk district, which provided some areas for the new district, will retain Washuk as its headquarters.
Its remaining administrative boundaries will include the sub-divisions of Washuk, Besima, and Nag, with the tehsils of Washuk, Besima, Nag, and the sub-tehsil of Shah Gouri.
The designation of Nok Kundi as the headquarters of the new district marks a significant step forward in developing the district’s administrative framework and enabling the localized execution of government operations, reflecting the government’s broader commitment, as evidenced by the bifurcation of Chagai district.
Key Measures to Enhance Administrative Strength in Balochistan
Enhancing administrative strength in Balochistan is crucial for addressing the province’s unique development and governance challenges, which are further complicated by its vast and rugged terrain.
Key measures center on decentralization, resource allocation, and capacity building. A primary focus involves improving service delivery at the grassroots level by empowering local government institutions, making them more responsive and accountable.
Strengthening financial and administrative authority at the division and district levels, often through the restructuring and creation of new administrative units, facilitates more efficient implementation of development projects and quicker decision-making.
Significant investments in modern technology, particularly e-governance solutions, are essential for improving transparency, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and increasing the overall efficiency of administrative processes, ensuring resources are optimally utilized across the province.
Capacity building of the provincial and district bureaucracies through targeted training programs, modernizing recruitment practices, and establishing performance-based incentive structures is paramount to improving the quality of governance.
Concurrently, improving infrastructure, including transport links and communication networks, is vital for connecting remote areas, reducing regional disparities, and facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people.
This enhanced connectivity directly supports economic growth and improves access to essential public services like education and healthcare.
Efforts to improve security and the rule of law are inextricably linked to administrative strength. Strengthening law enforcement agencies and the judiciary is necessary to create a stable and safe environment for citizens and businesses, which is a prerequisite for sustained development.
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Ultimately, ensuring sustainable development in Balochistan requires a comprehensive and well-coordinated approach that tackles these interconnected issues simultaneously, with a clear focus on long-term sustainability and equitable growth across the province.
