Double Sawari Ban in Balochistan 2025: Section 144 Extended Till November 30. If you live in Balochistan, you’ve probably noticed tighter security checks lately. That’s because the Balochistan government has officially banned double sawari (pillion riding) under Section 144, effective immediately and lasting till November 30, 2025.
This measure comes amid heightened security alerts across the province. While the ban restricts most citizens from riding with passengers on motorcycles, women and children are exempted under the latest notification.
As an SEO content writer and digital journalist, I, Nadeem Blogger, will explain in this detailed post what this new Section 144 Balochistan order means, why it was imposed, who’s exempt, and how it connects to similar restrictions in Punjab.
What Does the Double Sawari Ban Mean?
The Double Sawari Ban prohibits two people from riding a single motorcycle — a common mode of transport across Quetta, Khuzdar, Turbat, Gwadar, and other cities.
Under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, provincial governments can impose temporary restrictions to maintain public safety and law and order.
In simple terms, this means:
- No person is allowed to carry another individual on a motorbike.
- Exceptions apply to women and children only.
- Anyone violating this order can face legal penalties or arrest.
This is not the first time the government has taken such steps. Historically, double sawari bans are enforced during sensitive security periods, especially ahead of religious events, national days, or political rallies.
Why Was the Double Sawari Ban Imposed in Balochistan?
1. Security Threats and Law-and-Order Concerns
According to official reports and ARY News, the Home and Tribal Affairs Department issued this order to curb possible militant or extremist activities.
Recent intelligence inputs indicated potential misuse of motorcycles in carrying out terror-related or criminal activities in urban areas.
2. Preventing Public Gatherings and Disorder
Officials clarified that the ban under Section 144 also restricts public gatherings, rallies, or protests that may disrupt peace.
This is part of broader security operations following previous unrest in certain districts.
3. Follow-Up to November 5 Order
This latest order amends the November 5, 2025, notification — extending restrictions and including additional clauses to prevent the transport of dangerous materials, face covering, and unauthorized assembly.
Key Details of the Section 144 Balochistan Notification
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority | Balochistan Home and Tribal Affairs Department |
| Legal Basis | Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) |
| Effective Date | Immediate (as per notification) |
| Validity | Till November 30, 2025 |
| Main Restriction | Ban on pillion riding (double sawari) |
| Exemptions | Women and children |
| Other Bans | Covering of faces, carrying explosives or chemicals |
| Purpose | Maintain peace and prevent illegal activities |
| Applicable Areas | Entire province of Balochistan |
This official notification, reported by ARY News, highlights that the restriction applies province-wide, leaving no district exempt.
Additional Restrictions Under Section 144 in Balochistan
Besides banning pillion riding, the government also included other preventive measures to ensure safety.
1. Ban on Face Covering
People are temporarily prohibited from covering their faces in public using masks, mufflers, or scarves, unless medically required. This helps security officials identify individuals easily in public spaces and avoid misuse during criminal activities.
2. Ban on Transporting Explosive Materials
Authorities have restricted transportation of explosive substances, chemicals, and sulfuric acid, which are often linked with illegal mining, attacks, or sabotage.
3. Ban on Public Protests
Although the order primarily focuses on pillion riding, public demonstrations and unauthorized processions may also come under Section 144, depending on the situation in each district.
4. Strict Police Monitoring
Police and local administrations are instructed to closely monitor main routes, entry points, and public areas for violations of these directives.
Citizens are urged to cooperate and avoid unnecessary movement during restricted hours.
Legal Basis: What Is Section 144 of CrPC?
Section 144 is a temporary preventive law under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) of Pakistan.
It empowers local authorities to restrict certain actions when public safety is threatened.
Key Powers Under Section 144:
- Prohibit gatherings of more than four people.
- Ban on carrying weapons.
- Restrict movement in specific zones.
- Enforce curfews or transport bans like double sawari.
Such orders are preventive, not punitive aimed at stopping incidents before they occur.
Public Reaction in Quetta and Other Cities
The public response to this ban has been mixed.
In Quetta, some residents expressed support, saying the decision ensures safety during times of heightened risk. Others, particularly daily wage earners and students, say it’s an inconvenience since motorcycles are their only affordable transport option.
Local Views:
- Supporters: “It’s better to face minor inconvenience than risk major incidents,” said one citizen.
- Critics: “We respect the law but wish for alternatives like public transport support,” added a student in Quetta.
Such sentiments reflect a common pattern whenever pillion riding bans are imposed across Pakistan.
Section 144 Extended in Punjab Too
In a similar move, the Punjab government has also extended Section 144 for another seven days, maintaining bans on rallies, protests, and public gatherings until November 15, 2025.
The Punjab Home Department said the purpose is to prevent unrest and ensure citizen safety.
Exemptions in Punjab:
- Wedding ceremonies
- Funerals
- Official duties
- Court proceedings
This highlights a nationwide trend of using Section 144 to preempt any disturbances in major provinces.
Official Statements and Media Coverage
The Balochistan Home Department emphasized that these steps were taken after reviewing ongoing security alerts.
Local media including ARY News, Geo News, and Express Tribune reported the same notification, citing its province-wide enforcement.
Officials said:
“Public cooperation is essential for maintaining peace and ensuring safety during these sensitive times.”
The statement urges citizens to respect the temporary restriction and avoid unnecessary travel with passengers until the order is lifted.
FAQs About Double Sawari Ban in Balochistan 2025
1. Why has the Balochistan government banned double sawari?
The government imposed this ban under Section 144 to control potential threats, improve security, and prevent misuse of motorcycles for illegal activities.
2. Who is exempted from the double sawari ban?
Women and children are exempted, as mentioned in the official notification. Others, including men riding together, may face penalties for violations.
3. How long will the ban remain in effect?
The ban remains valid until November 30, 2025, unless extended further by government order.
4. Does the ban apply to all districts in Balochistan?
Yes. The notification clearly states that the ban applies province-wide, including Quetta, Gwadar, Turbat, Khuzdar, and other areas.
5. Is Punjab also under Section 144 right now?
Yes. The Punjab government extended Section 144 for seven more days, maintaining bans on protests and gatherings until November 15, 2025.
Conclusion
The Double Sawari Ban across Balochistan under Section 144 till November 30, 2025, reflects the province’s continued focus on citizen safety and law enforcement amid rising security alerts.
While it may cause inconvenience for daily commuters, the step aims to prevent violence, maintain peace, and protect lives.
