38 years ago today, in 1988, police opened fire on women protesting against a water crisis in Jiwani [جیوانی], resulting in the loss of lives of local women. Today, once again, a similar incident has taken place involving labourers at the Jiwani-Kuntani [جیوانی کنٹانی] border, resulting in the loss of two labourers and the injury of five others. Don’t such incidents further fuel the ongoing conflict and unrest in Balochistan?
Such informal trade is not only taking place in the Makran [مکران] Division of Balochistan [بلوچستان]; examples of it are found everywhere in the globe, but reducing such economic activities in conflict-affected areas like Makran, Balochistan, could further exacerbate the ongoing political unrest.
In an era marked by deepening economic interdependence, informal cross-border trade has become a lifeline for many households, especially in economically vulnerable areas (David Adetona Famadewa – Study, January 02, 2026).
For decades, the Pakistan–Iran border region, particularly in the Makran Division of Balochistan, has seen informal cross-border trade activities. Areas such as Jiwani-Kuntani Hor have long functioned as active trading points, where not only residents but also skilled workers from outside Gwadar [گوادر] come in search of employment.
It is estimated that around 50% to 60% of the local population’s livelihoods are directly or indirectly linked to this informal border trade, with thousands of households relying on it as their primary source of income.
In the past, this economic activity operated with relatively fewer restrictions. However, over time, various government-level restrictions and limitations were introduced. Initially, there were no major barriers, and people freely conducted informal trade through these coastal points. Later, local administration began tightening controls, gradually restricting the activity. Now, there are discussions about fully shutting down these points due to security risks.
Those associated with this trade argue that a complete shutdown would render thousands of daily-wage workers unemployed, potentially leading to serious economic hardship and increased public dissatisfaction. They also express concern that such measures could deepen resentment towards government policies.
According to local social media reports, an incident occurred yesterday in Jiwani’s Kuntani Hor [کنٹانی ہور] area in which unidentified armed individuals opened fire, resulting in the death of two workers and injuries to five others. The injured were shifted to GDA Hospital in Gwadar (social media report). On the other hand, some claims suggest that the Coast Guard carried out the firing; although no official confirmation has been provided so far (claim).
Local voices stress that the government should focus on creating economic opportunities for the population, whereas the current situation appears to be moving in the opposite direction, with increasing restrictions rather than expansion of livelihood options. They warn that in a region like Balochistan, already affected by long-standing tensions and conflict, such developments could further escalate instability.
It is also argued that if this source of livelihood is completely eliminated, unemployment and frustration among thousands of vulnerable Baloch youth in Makran, particularly Gwadar, may increase significantly, potentially weakening public trust in state institutions. While there are claims that efforts are being made to bring youth into the national mainstream, restrictions on their primary economic activities appear contradictory to that objective.
In the world, such activities are prioritised to promote economic growth and ensure stability. Informal cross-border trade (ICBT) is a significant source of employment for marginalised populations, particularly women and youth who face barriers to formal employment. Recognising and supporting ICBT can transform these informal livelihoods into more secure and formal opportunities, aligning with national development goals for job creation and poverty reduction (The Contribution of ICBT to a Successful African Continental Free Trade Area, 2025).
The recent incident and the reported burning of the market have been described as deeply distressing. Local workers say they are not only witnessing the destruction of a marketplace but also seeing their economic future being threatened, which adds to feelings of uncertainty and insecurity (worker viral video).