QUETTA

District Profile

Turn Potential into Profit

Small & Medium Enterprise Development
Authority
Government of Pakistan

http://www.smeda.org.pk

Lahore
Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority, 6st Floor, LDA Plaza Egerton Road,. Lahore 54792, Pakistan
Tel: 92-42-111-111-456 Email: helpdesk@smeda.org.pk

Karachi
Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority, 5th floor, Bahria Complex-II
Moulvi Tameezuddin Khan Road, Karachi
Tel : 92-21-111-111-456, 5610432, 5610536, 5610459, Fax: 92-21-5610572
Email: helpdesk-khi@smeda.org.pk

Peshawar
Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority, Ground Floor, Statelife Building, The Mall, Peshawar Cantt.
Tel: 92-91-111-111-456, 92-91-9213046-7 Fax: 92-91-286908, Email: helpdesk-pew@smeda.org.pk

Quetta
Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority, Bunglow No.15-A Chaman Housing Scheme, Airport Road, Quetta
Tel: 92-81-2831702, 92-81-2831623 Fax: 92-81-2831922, Email: helpdesk.balochistan@smeda.org.pk

SMEDA Balochistan
District Profile - Quetta

Table of Contents
1 - INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Map: Quetta ...............................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Introduction of Quetta..................................................................................................................................1
1.3 History ........................................................................................................................................................2
1.4 Population ...................................................................................................................................................2
1.5 Climate .......................................................................................................................................................3
1.6 Education....................................................................................................................................................3
1.7 Culture ........................................................................................................................................................3
2 - INFRASTRUCTURE.............................................................................................................................4
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................4
2.2 Roads .........................................................................................................................................................4
2.2.1 Transportation...................................................................................................................................5
2.3 Communications..........................................................................................................................................5
2.4 Energy ........................................................................................................................................................5
2.5 Financial Institutions ....................................................................................................................................6
2.6 Major Infrastructure & Urban Management Problems....................................................................................6
3 - IMPORTANT SECTORS.......................................................................................................................7
3.1 Small and Medium Enterprises.....................................................................................................................7
3.2 Trade (import/export)...................................................................................................................................7
3.3 Agriculture/ horticulture................................................................................................................................8
3.3.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................................8
3.3.2 Land utilization statistics ....................................................................................................................8
3.3.3 Production of different Crops..............................................................................................................9
3.3.4 Marketing........................................................................................................................................10
3.3.5 Problems for Agriculture/horticulture Sector......................................................................................10
3.4 Mineral......................................................................................................................................................11
3.4.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................................................11
3.4.2 Marketing........................................................................................................................................12
3.4.3 Problems and Issues for Mineral Sector ...........................................................................................12
3.5 Live stock..................................................................................................................................................12
3.5.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................................................12
3.5.2 Dairy ...............................................................................................................................................13
3.5.3 Poultry ............................................................................................................................................13
3.5.4 Marketing........................................................................................................................................14
3.5.5 Extension services...........................................................................................................................14
3.5.6 Problems and Issues for livestock sector..........................................................................................14
3.6 Industries ..................................................................................................................................................15
3.6.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................................................15
3.7 Handicrafts................................................................................................................................................16
3.8 Tourism.....................................................................................................................................................16
4 - POTENTIAL PROJECTS FOR INVESTMENT.....................................................................................18
4.1 Horticulture................................................................................................................................................18
4.1.1 Ice Plant..........................................................................................................................................18
4.1.2 Cold storages..................................................................................................................................18
4.1.3 Food Processing .............................................................................................................................18
4.1.4 Fruits & Vegetable dehydration ........................................................................................................18
4.1.5 Green house farms and tunnel Farms ..............................................................................................19
4.2 Minerals ....................................................................................................................................................19
4.2.1 Coal Mining .....................................................................................................................................19
4.2.2 Coal Washing Plant .........................................................................................................................19
4.2.3 Marble processing units and Handicraft manufacturing units.............................................................19

SMEDA Balochistan
District Profile - Quetta

4.2.4 Marble Warehouse ..........................................................................................................................20

4.2.5 Stone Crushing................................................................................................................................20
4.2.6 Chromite Beneficiation.....................................................................................................................20
4.3 Livestock...................................................................................................................................................20
4.3.1 Tannery:..........................................................................................................................................20
4.3.2 Sausage making:.............................................................................................................................20
4.3.3 Meat Processing..............................................................................................................................20
4.3.4 Cattle/Sheep/Goats Fattening Center...............................................................................................21
4.3.5 Dairy Farms ....................................................................................................................................21
4.3.6 Poultry Farm ...................................................................................................................................21
4.4 Other Sectors............................................................................................................................................21
4.4.1 Re-rolling mills:................................................................................................................................21
4.4.2 PVC Products..................................................................................................................................22
4.4.3 Hospitals and Clinics: ......................................................................................................................22
5 - ANNEXURE .......................................................................................................................................23

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District Profile - Quetta 1

1 - In troduction
1.1 Map: Quett a

1 . 2 I n t ro d u c t i o n o f Q u e t t a

Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, is situated at an elevation of 1700 meters

(5,500 ft) and is one of the best known hill resorts in Pakistan with delightful summer
weather and severe winters. It is located at North West of Balochistan. Its bordering
districts are Pishin, Sibi, Mastung and Chaghai.
Name Quetta is being derived from the Pashto word kwatta which means fort, Quetta
valley is surrounded by imposing hills on all sides. These include Chiltan, Takatoo,
Mordar and Zarghun. It is one of the most important military locations in Pakistan it
commands the entrance through the strategic Bolan Pass into Afghanistan and is a trade
center for Afghanistan, Iran, and much of central Asia.

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District Profile - Quetta 2

Total area of district is 2,653 square km. Projected population of the district was 1,008,814
in 20051. City Government of Quetta contains two towns Chiltan and Zarghoon Towns.
Panjpai sub Tehsil is also part of the district.
Zila, Tehsil & Town Councils Membership Quetta
Tehsil/Town Membership
Union Naib Union Reserved Seats Total
Nazim Nazim
W P&W M
66 - 22 3 3 94
Chiltan Town 29 10 1 1 41
Zargoon 37 12 2 2 53
Town

Source: National Reconstruction Bureau

1 . 3 H i s t o ry

Historically Quetta remained under control of Afghan, Mughal and Persian control at
different times. Quetta was occupied briefly by the British Government during the first
Afghan war in 1839. In 1842 Khan of Kalat took it back from British Control. Later, it
came under permanent control of British in 1876.

Most of the city was razed to the ground in the disastrous earthquake of 1935 about
40,000 people died in that earthquake. The reconstruction started soon after that and
with the passage of time Quetta became a beautiful small town.
After partition, in 1947, the population of Quetta has increased dramatically because of
its military base, trading activities and the introduction of commercial fruit farming.
Another reason for increase of the population was the arrival of Afghan refugees during
the 1980s.
New residential areas have been established at Satellite Town, Jinnah Town, Samungli
Town, Model Town and Shahbaz Town. Besides there are a number of Killi located
around the city. All this population expansion has turned the city into an over-populated
city.
1.4 Populat ion

It is the highly populated and most urbanized district in the province. Population in 1981
was 381,566 which increased to 759,941 in 1998 high growth rate of 4.13 % was observed
due to urbanization of the district and influx of refugees from Afghanistan. . Projected
population of the district was 1,008,814 in 20052. Different ethnic groups include balochi,
Pashto, brahvi, Hazara and Punjabi.

1 Development Statistics of Balochistan 2006

2 Development Statistics of Balochistan 2006

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District Profile - Quetta 3

1.5 Climat e

Climate of Quetta is cold and dry, minimum temperature in winter reaches below
freezing point while in summer it can reach as high as 40 C. As compare to the rest of
Balochistan Quetta district was also affected by drought however in recent years the
rains have increased in 2004 the total rainfall was 105.9 mm which was much better in
2005 with 310.5 mm of rain.

*Mean of maximum temperature of Quetta by Month 2005 Temp in C

Jan Feb Mar April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
8.8 10.6 18.6 24.7 28.3 35.0 37.6 35.6 33.6 27.4 19.5 14.38

*Mean of minimum temperature of Quetta by Month 2005 Temp in C

Jan Feb Mar April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
-1.3 1.1 6.6 8.4 13.1 18.1 22.2 18.2 15.0 6.8 1.2 -4.3

*Rainfall Quetta by Month 2005 Rainfall in mm

Jan Feb Mar April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total
59 141 72 4 30.5 Trace 0 Trace 0 0 4 Trace 310.5
* Source: Regional Metrological Center, Karachi
1.6 Educat ion

There are a large number of public and private educational institutions for matriculation
and intermediate level. Besides a number of higher education institutions including
University of Balochistan, Balochistan University of Information Technology, SBK
Women University, and Bolan Medical College are based in Quetta. There is one
university operating in private sector.
1 . 7 C u l t u re

Quetta though is a metropolitan city but most of the local inhabitants still have strong
ties to the rural areas in the province from where they originated and follow local
traditions and customs. The major Ethnic Groups are Baloch, Pashtoon, Brahui, Punjabi
and Hazara while major languages include Balochi, Pashtoo, Brahvi, Urdu, and Persian
which gives a very multicultural feel to the city.

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District Profile - Quetta 4

2 - Infrastructure

2 . 1 I n t ro d u c t i o n

Quetta being the provincial capital is much more developed as compared to the rest of
the districts in province. It has primarily good network of roads, rail, air and
telecommunications. Economically Quetta is very important due to its access to Iran,
Afghanistan and Central Asian States. The development of Gawadar port will even
increase its importance.
2.2 Roads

District has fairly developed roads in urban as well as rural areas. There is a network3 of
575 Km metalled and 402 Km of shingle road in the district. The length of the National
High way passing through Quetta district is 56Km
Quetta not only has a central position in the province but it also servers as a gateway for
Afghanistan, Iran and Central Asian States. The reconstructions underway in
Afghanistan, the introduction of market-oriented reforms in Pakistan, and developments
in Central Asia have opened up new opportunities for closer cooperation among these
countries. In this perspective the government has taken a major initiative for
improvement and construction of roads that links Quetta with different parts of the
country and in turn connects it with Afghanistan and Iran.
Major work is being carried out to improve the provincial road network, including a
priority regional transport corridor, in Balochistan. This will support institutional
development, improvement of provincial roads and national highways. Balochistan
provincial government has taken some initiatives to address provincial road sector
policy issues and established a road management unit at its Communications and Works
Department (C&WD).
A project for improvement of national highways is under progress, it will widen 247 km
of National Highway 25 from Kalat to Quetta and Quetta to Chamman, forming part of
the Central Asia-Afghanistan-Pakistan transport corridor that passes through
Balochistan.
Development of Road infrastructure will act as catalyst to Capitalize on opportunities for
trade with landlocked Central Asian States through linkage of Gwadar Deep Sea Port to
Major Cities and Highways via Road and Railways.
Following are the Highways in Balochistan that links Quetta with other parts of the
country, Iran and Afghanistan
N-25 (813 Km) Karachi - Khuzdar Quetta- Chaman (link to Afghanistan)
N-40 (610 Km) Quetta - Dalbandin - Taftan (link to Iran)
N-50 (531 Km) Kuchlak - Zhob - D. I. Khan (Link to Punjab, NWFP)

3 Development Statistics of Balochistan 2006

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District Profile - Quetta 5

N-65 (385 Km) Quetta - Sibi - Dera Allah Yar-Sukkar (Link to Sindh)
N-70 (447 Km) Qila Saifullah - Loralai Rakhni-DG khan - Multan (Link to Punjab,
NWFP)

2.2.1 Transportatio n
There are a number of public owned transport companies operating from Quetta city.
They provide passenger as well as goods transport facilities linking the district with all
the major cities of NWFP, Punjab and Sindh. Local Transport services include buses,
taxis and rickshaws.
The railway provides both passengers as well as goods transport facility. On one side the
railway links Quetta with Chaman border; on the other side it links Quetta with Iran
through Taftan. Quetta is also linked with the rest of country through its rail network.
The railway stations in the district include Sheikhmanda, Balely, Khuchlak, Sariab and
Quetta city.
There is an international Airport located at Quetta City Pakistan International Airlines
have regular flights between Quetta and other major cities of Pakistan including Karachi,
Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Turbat and Gwadar.

Traffic Problems faced by District

Tremendous growth of population / crowded roads & streets.
Increased number of vehicles.
Lack of parking spaces.
Encroachments.
High number of Hand carts / Donkey carts.
The process of shifting of the existing Bus Truck Stands, Fruit Vegetable Market, Dairy
Farms, Bakra Piri, Slaughter House, Oil Depots, Coal Plots, Garages, Car dealers etc.
from down town area to the suburbs of the City is already underway. This will result in
removal of road congestion and improvement of urban environments

2.3 Communications

The district has well established telecommunication network. There are 14 telephone
exchanges in the district and the total number of telephone lines was 60,009 in 2005.
There are a number of Cellular companies operating in the district including Mobilink,
Zong, U phone, Telenor and Warid
There were 73 post offices in the district in 2004. There are a number of National and
International courier services available in the district (TCS, OCS, DHL FedEx etc).
2 . 4 E n e rg y

Quetta is connected to the National Grid System which supplies major part of electricity
to the district besides there is one power house in the district which is working under
private sector. In addition to the domestic requirements electricity is the major
requirement of Agriculture as well as industrial sector.

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District Profile - Quetta 6

Gas is also available in major parts of the District especially in urban areas and industrial
zones.
2.5 Financial Inst itut ions

The major commercial banks in the district are: Muslim Commercial Bank, Habib Bank
Ltd., National Bank of Pakistan, United Bank Ltd, Allied Bank Ltd, Askari Commercial
Bank, Al Falah Bank, Faisal Bank, NIB Bank, Soneri Bank, Kushali Bank, Bank of Punjab,
Kayber bank and Standard Chartered Bank. Moreover, there is a network of specialized
credit institutions like; Orix leasing, SME bank, HBFC, ZTBL etc. Money changing
activities also take place in the open market. Informal mode of Transfer of money is also
used specially in case of afghan trade.

2 . 6 M a j o r I n f ra s t r u c t u r e & U r b a n M a n a g e m e n t
Problems
Uncontrolled and unplanned growth of Quetta Urban Area.
Growth of Katchi Abadis.
Lack of Control and Building Regulations.
Incompatible land uses within residential areas.
Increasing traffic problems.
Lack of adequate social and physical infrastructure.
Ineffective Urban Management and lack of coordination among agencies
responsible for planning and development.
Lack of coordination amongst different Departments / Authorities in Quetta.

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District Profile - Quetta 7

3 - Important Secto rs
3 . 1 S m a l l a n d M e d i u m En t e rp r i s e s

SMEs are involved in different sectors in Quetta. In the urban area of the district trade
and commerce activities are predominant while in the rural parts of the district major
portion of the population is involved in Horticulture and livestock sectors. Apples and
Grapes production is very high. Number of industrial units in the city also has increased
in the past few years.
Major economic activity in the city is trade though the Government also has focused its
efforts on establishment of industries by providing incentives to the private sector that
has resulted in some industrial growth in Quetta. It is hoped that with further expansion
of infrastructure facilities and incentives, the industrial sector will gain extra momentum.
Government has established two industrial estates in Quetta. The smaller one is located
at Sirki Road known as Small Industrial Estate. The larger one is located at Eastern By-
Pass. There are different types of industries operating in Quetta4. They are mostly small
industries and labor intensive in nature.
3.2 T rade ( im p o rt /exp ort )

Though Quetta is the major city of the province still it did not develop as a major
industrial city. Most of the people are inclined more towards trade then industry due to
the fact that a number of problems are being faced by the industries.
The trading activities in Quetta have flourished because not only because it is center of
economic activity of the province but also it is located on the trade route to Iran and
Afghanistan.
Legal trade with Afghanistan from Chaman border has increased during past years, in
2001-02 total exports were above 5 Billion Rupees which increased to more then 15
Billion Rupees in 2004-05, different items particularly construction material, food items
including wheat, sugar and edible oil are exported to Afghanistan. On the other hand a
broad band of items are brought from Afghanistan that includes consumer items such as
Shampoo, Soaps, Cigarettes, and Electronic items such as TV, Radio, Tapes. Other items
including fresh/dry fruit, timber, cotton, sheep and goat skins etc. are also imported in
great quantity.
Likewise, there is a huge trade though Iran as well, Important commodities
imported/smuggles from Iran includes petrol, blankets, carpets, plastic goods, dried fruit
and fresh fruit e.g. cherries, dates and tinned fruit.
Government has initiated the project for improving cross-border facility at Chaman
which will be equipped with modern systems and equipment.
The border facilities and improvements to NH25 will provide easier and more controlled
movement of goods along the main corridor linking Afghanistan to major ports in the

4 Directorate of Industries

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District Profile - Quetta 8

south of Pakistan, promoting economic and social development in the province. All
these facilities will give a further boost to trade in District Quetta as well.
3 . 3 A g ri c u l t u re / h o r t i c u l t u r e

3.3.1 Introduction
A sizeable portion of population is engaged in agriculture sector especially in
horticulture activities. The most important crop is fruits, besides fruits vegetables,
melons, onion, potatoes, fodder, wheat and barley etc are also grown. Almost all the
crops grown are produced for commercial purposes. Most of the Cultivated Land in the
district is Personal owner ship or tribal ownership.
One of the speciality of the district is its old karez system thought it has been rendered
un operational for some time but it was the most important source of irrigation for the
whole city before the developments in recent decades. These karezes are located at
Kirani, Sariab and Kachi Baig areas.

3.3.2 La nd utilization statistics

The total geographical area of Quetta district is 168,800 Hactors. Out of which total
cultivated area is 9697 hactors and 35056 is potential area for further agricultural usage.
Land utilization statistics Quetta5 district 2004-05
Land use 2004-05 Area (Ha.)

Total Geographical Area 168,800

Reported Area 147,188

Total Cultivated Area 9697

- Area under forest 80582

- Culturable waste6 35056

- not available for cultivation7 21853

The combination of the climate and the prevailing soils makes the area suitable for
growing deciduous fruits. But the shortage of water is especially a constraint for further
expansion of the horticultural sector.
Labour is hired on daily wages or a short contract period. Machinery including tractors,
tube wells are used for the agricultural work.

5Development Statistics of Balochistan 2006

6Culturable waste: is that uncultivated farm area which is fit for cultivation but was not cropped
during the year under reference no in the year before that.
7 Not available for cultivation: is that un cultivated area of the farm which is under farm home
steads, farm roads and other connected purposes and therefore not available for cultivation

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District Profile - Quetta 9

3.3.3 Production of diffe rent Crops

Fruit production is very important and dominant in the district. Nearly half of the
cultivated area is under fruit production. Major fruits include apple, grapes apricot and
plum.
Area and Production of Fruits of Quetta District

Area, Production And Yield of All Fruits of

Quetta District
Fruits Area in Production in
Hectares Tonnes
2005-06*
Apple 1356 2316
Apricot 573 4726
Grapes 911 3986
Peach 528 3566
Plum 568 4469
Pear 38 180
Pomegranate 3 9
All Fruits 4541 23544
Source: Agriculture Statistics of Pakistan (MINFAL)

Area, Production and Yield of Vegetables of Quetta District 2002-03

Area, Production and Yield of all Vegetables of Quetta District
Rabi Vegetables

Area in Production Yield in

Vegetables
Hectares in Tonnes kgs/hectare
Cabbage 18 306 17,000
Carrot 5 88 17,600
Cauliflower 28 408 14,571
Peas 11 88 8,000
Raddish 5 88 17,600
Turnip 22 287 13,045
Spinach 12 196 16,333
Broad Beans 3 29 9,667
Rabi Tomatoes 65 975 15,000
Other Rabi
40 560 14,000
Vegetables

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District Profile - Quetta 10

Area in Production Yield in

Vegetables
Hectares in Tonnes kgs/hectare
Total Rabi
209 3,025
Vegetables
Kharif Vegetables
Lady Finger 61 345 5,656
Brinjal 3 26 8,667
Bitter Gourd 7 53 7,571
Bottle Gourd 3 32 10,667
Pumpkins 1 31 31,000
Luffa 5 25 5,000
Kharif Tomatoes 49 396 8,082
Potato 28 420 15,000
Cucumber 16 109 6,813
Other Kharif
5 28 5,600
Vegetables
Total Kharif
178 1,465
Vegetable
Grand Total 387 4,490
Sourse: Agricultural Statistics of Balochistan (2002-03)

3.3.4 Marketing
Different types of fruits and vegetables are produced in the district. Most of the
vegetables produced are consumed within the district while most of the fruit production
of the district is sent outside the district to other provinces. There are a number of
intermediaries involved in the marketing process.
There are two types of marketing contracts. Either the contractor purchases the orchard
total production at the time of blossom. Then contractor is responsible for the orchard till
harvest, he provides water, fertilizer, insecticide spray and labor for the management of
orchard. Sometimes the contractor purchases the orchard when the production is ready
and he only harvests the product.
At the second level the product is purchased by the fruits commission agents from the
primary contractor and sent to other provinces.

3.3.5 Problems for Agriculture/horticulture Sector

The district has faced drought for last dacade which has severely effected its production
of fruits and vegetabes.
Major issues faced by this sector:
1. Scarcity of Water resources. The water table has been decreasing steadily for fast
few years which have forced farmers to drill more and more tube wells.

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District Profile - Quetta 11

2. In adequate Capacity of Cold storages and unavailability of cool chains

3. Problems in access to finance
4. Lack of value addition in the production
5. Load shedding
6. Introduction of high efficiency irrigation system.

3.4 Mine ral

3.4.1 Introduction
Some of the sizeable economic activity in the district is related to mining specially coal
reserves are found in abundance in the district. A large number of SMEs are involved in
the coal mining activity.
The Major mineral resource of district includes coal, limestone and building stone.
Moreover, at Sorange an oil and gas reserve has also been found. Most of the coal is
transported to other provinces for Brick kilns & cement industries.
Production of different minerals in
Minerals Production (Tonnes) Production (Tonnes)
2000 01* 2004-05**

Coal 154,598 627,833

Limestone 3,590 5,368

Building stone/ 7,00 6,245

Ordinary stone
Marble - 90
(ordnry)
Total 158,888 639,536

Source: *Development Statistics of Balochistan 2000-01

** Development Statistics of Balochistan 2006
Limestone exists in abundance in different parts of Balochistan. Several hundred meters
thick layers of limestone occur in Chiltan Formation in Quetta and Kalat while
Limestone is also found in Sor Range and Spintangi areas.
During 1990 - 95 on average 161,000 Tonnes of coal was produced. The coal production
declined to 154,598 in 2000 01 Tonnes while in 2004-05 its production jumped to
627,833. Limestone production has increased from 3590 Tonnes in 2000-01 to 5368 in
2004-05. Similarly building stone production has increased from 700 Tonnes to 6245
Tonnes during the same period.

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District Profile - Quetta 12

3.4.2 Marketing
Precious or semiprecious stones are brought from other parts of Balochistan for
polishing, value addition and selling. This work is done in small scale lapidaries
established by private sector. A Technical Trade Training Center (TTC) In Gems
Cutting/Polishing is being established in Women University Quetta to enhance the value
of the products and ensure the availability of trained labor.
3.4.3 Problems and Issues for Mineral Secto r
Lack of exploration and reserve estimates.
Poor infrastructure
Lack of modern mining equipment
Reliance on traditional mining techniques
Poor Safety measures in the mining sector
Access to finance
Scarcity of skilled Labour

3.5 Live stock

3.5.1 Introduction
Live stock rearing takes place both in rural and urban areas of the district, in rural areas
the focus is towards goat and sheep farming, some people rear the animals for domestic
purposes and others for commercial purposes. In Urban areas focus is towards dairy
farming and poultry farming, milk animals are kept by the dairy farm owners for
commercial purposes. There are a number of poultry farms in the private sector
Due to the drought particularly in Balochistan province which continued for almost 7 to
8 years in 90s the livestock population dropped considerably which has only recovered
in past few years.
Number of Livestock in District 8
Animals 2006

Sheep 163,799

Goats 120,384

Cattle 11,244

Buffalos 25,247

Donkeys 3,468

Camels 1,377

8 Livestock Census 2006

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District Profile - Quetta 13

Livestock involves a number of government and trade organizations, private enterprises,

producers and consumers as stakeholders this sector also provides precious components
of foreign exchange earnings through export of wool, carpets and leather products.
Mutton, goat meat and beef are sold in small shops after 8-10 hours of slaughtering in
traditional type slaughter houses which lacks proper hygienic facilities. Most of the
gross income returns to butchers come from meat sales, but a substantial portion is
received from by-products such a skin, head, trotters, stomach, lung and liver.

3.5.2 Dairy
Peri-urban commercial milk production has developed rapidly in recent years in
response to growing urban milk demand. Peri-urban producers can be divided into large
and small units. The large peri-urban units have herds ranging from20 to 600 heads,
almost all adult females, of which more than 95% are in production. The calves are
generally slaughtered after first week. Mostly dry animals are sold for slaughter. Good
yielders or those that get pregnant earlier are kept or returned to rural areas of Sindh
and Punjab until again ready to calve The main reason for adopting buffaloes as dairy
animals for peri- urban units is its high fat percentage providing ample chances of
adulteration to off set high maintenance cost. The cross breeding measures with
European dairy breeds has however helped to build a good number of herds of cross
bred cows in and around Quetta which yield almost two to three times more milk at the
same cost. Most of the dairy owners are adding these cross-bred cows in their units of
buffaloes to increase the volume of milk as there are no regulatory measures to check the
percentage of fat of marketed milk
There were more than 500 commercial peri-urban dairy units in Quetta9 and its suburbs
stretching from Kuchlak to Sariab in 2006. Milch animals in Peri-urban dairy units
comprised about 25,000 buffalo cows and about 10,000 crossbred cows of exotic origin.
Buffaloes belong to Kundi breed of Sindh and Ravi-Nilli of Punjab province. The average
daily milk yield of buffalo is 7 to 8 litre while cross bred cows yields about 18 to 20 litres
of milk per day. The milk and milk products (butter, cheese, cream, etc) are sold in the
local market. The prices of milk as compared to other cities of Pakistan are higher;
particularly in summer there is a shortage of milk. The only UHT processing facility in
the City is Non operational since its establishment.
There are two government dairy farms in Quetta. One is situated in the Cantonment
area, and is administered by federal government while the other is controlled by the
provincial government.
3.5.3 Po ultry
There are several privately owned poultry farms in the district and a hatchery has also
been established by the private sector. In the rural areas of the district Poultry is an
important income generating activity. Desi eggs normally fetch a premium price in the
local market.

9 SMEDA Survey

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District Profile - Quetta 14

3.5.4 Marketing
Livestock markets exist in different parts of the city like the Eastern By-Pass and at Killi
Almo Chowk. Moreover, livestock is also bought and sold in the villages through middle
men as well as by livestock farmers. Livestock prices are subject to fluctuation. There are
many factors influencing the prices of livestock in the district. First is the arrival of
nomads from Afghanistan. It is interesting to mention that during drought years the
prices of livestock fell, because the herd owners could not afford the expenses of feeding
the animals. Moreover at the time of Eid-ul- Azha, the prices are normally very high and
they shoot up even after Eid. This is due to the slaughtering of a large number of
animals. Similarly in the winter season, the prices go up due to higher demand, whereas
in the spring and summer season the prices of livestock slightly come down.

3.5.5 Ex tension service s

There are number of vetanary hospitals, dispensaries and Artificial Insemination Centre
in the district. A number of privately clinics for livestock have also been established by
the private sector.
Medicine is available in the market and as well as in the Government veterinary
hospitals. In the open market smuggled veterinary medicines, particularly from Iran, are
also available. There are 3 veterinary hospitals and 14 dispensaries in the district.
(Source; Development statistics of bal.2006)

Animals Slaughtered in slaughter houses, Quetta District 2000 2001/2006

Type 2000-01 2004-05

Cattle 17509 26258

Sheep 19832 27726

Goat 25738 23502

Total 63079 77486

Source :- Development Statistics of Balochistan 2000-2001./2006

3.5.6 Problems and Issues for live stock sector

The livestock sector faces a number of issues which is hindering its development.
i) Current market premises have inadequate facilities of stock water points,
feed stores and quarters, veterinary aid facilities, weighing scales and other
such amenities
ii) Non utilization of slaughter house
iii) Difficulty in access to finance
iv) Scarce source of water for livestock farming;
v) Lack and insufficient availability of balanced feed and fodder;
vi) Lack of technology for manufacturing traditional and non traditional
dairy products on a commercial scale;

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District Profile - Quetta 15

vii) Absence of farmers associations;

viii) Low milk yields per animal.
ix) Improper management of Peri-urban commercial dairy farms;
x) Lack of awareness regarding value of hygienic milk in its various
processes of production, distribution and consumption;
xi) Lack of veterinary and laboratory testing facilities for milk and feeds
adulteration.

3.6 Indust ries

3.6.1 Introduction
The government has established two industrial estates in the district. The smaller
industrial estate is located at Sirki road and is known as Small Industrial Estate. The
larger one is established at Eastern by pass.
There are different types of industries operating in Quetta10. These units comprise of
small industries mostly labor intensive in nature. Sirki Road Small Industrial Estate
contains following types of industries, Flour Mills, Ghee Mills, Furniture Industries,
Soap Factories, Tobacco Factories and Marble factory. In spite of the fact that No. of plots
have been allotted in Industrial Estate at eastern by pass but only 15-20 % of the allotees
have established industries. Mainly plots have been allotted for Marble cutting units,
Ghee Mills, Flour Mills, Furniture industry, Cold Storage, Soap Factories, Plastic Items,
Packaging Units, Steel Items, Steel Re-rolling Mills, Beverages, Food Items,
Pharmaceuticals, RCC Pipes, PVC Pipes and Fruit Juices.
Flour Mills: The number of flour mills has increased significantly during last decade. In
200311 there were 32 floor mills operating in Quetta with total of 256 bodies. Major
problem faced by flour mills is their dependence on wheat being supplied from Punjab
and Sindh.
Marble processing: Quetta is becoming a major center for marble processing units. There
are total of 13 marble processing units in Quetta. Utilization of these units is nearly half
of their installed capacity due to inappropriate raw material. The final product after
processing in different processing units of is only 45% of the total production of raw
Marble and Granite
Most of the machinery used in M&G processing industry is local made and none of the
processors have imported machinery. It includes Gang Saw (very few in numbers),
Block cutters, HV cutting machines, Small Cutters, Section Machines, Manual Polishers,
Cranes (winches)
Furniture making: Carpentry and furniture also a major business. There are different
types of units starting from individual shops to small scale industry.

10 Directorate of Industries
11 Industry survey

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District Profile - Quetta 16

3.7 Handic raft s

The traditional handicrafts produced in the district include Textile embroidery, Balochi
chappal, hand made carpets and traditional jewelry. A number of carpet weaving centers
have been established in the suburbs of the city. Afghan refugees particularly uzbaks are
involved in carpet weaving activities in the district. Embroidery and carpet weaving are
major activities, which can be seen frequently in the suburban areas of Quetta.
Embroidery of different types can be seen in Quetta District due to its heterogeneous
community. Churma and Khamak are the famous embroideries of the district.
Churma is a type of embroidery, which is done with golden strips on cloth of Vlevet.
Many women are engaged in this activity in the District. Bed sheets, pillow covers,
typical Afghan frok, cushions, and many other fantastic items are embroidered.
Khamak has its roots from Afghanistan, as the Afghan Hazara community residing in
Quetta from a long time is involved in embroidery. It is a stylish stitch made with raw
silk thread and is very fine in its look. Generally light and especially white color is used
for embroidery as it is considered the symbol of good luck in the community.
Gillim is also produced in Quetta. It is made on Khaddi as normal carpet with hand
process. The carpet industry in Balochistan is limited to the areas surrounding Quetta
where Hazara tribes are settled. It is usually made for personal use by the tribe. It can
have a market potential if promoted properly.

3 . 8 T o u ri s m

The City has a dramatic setting with a mountainous backdrop on all sides. Quettas
climate is dry and well suited for the cultivation of different fruits it is also called the
fruit basket of Pakistan the important fruits include grapes, peaches, plums, apricots,
apples, almonds, pears and pomegranates.
There are about 225 species of some pretty exotic plants, such as Pistachios, Juniper, wild
Olives, wild Ash and wild Almonds. A wide range of shrubs is also found like, wild fig,
barberry, wild cherry and herbs like, Ephedra etc. There is a splash of colours during
springtime when most of the plants bloom.
Chiltan-Hazarganji National Park located at 20 kms south-west of Quetta is an
internationally recognized wildlife reserve. It was established to protect and propagate
endangered wildlife species like Chiltan Markhor. The park is spread over 32,500 acres,
altitude ranging from 2021 to 3264 meters. Besides Chiltan Markhor other animals and
birds like Hares, foxes, Porcupines, Partridge, Blue Rock Pigeon, Sparrows, are also
found.
Karkhasa is another recreation Park situated at a distance of 10 kms. to the west of
Quetta. It is a 16 kms. long narrow valley having a variety of flora. One can see birds like
partridges and other wild birds in the park. Limited recreational facilities are provided
to the visitors through the Forest Department

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District Profile - Quetta 17

The Urak Valley is 21 kms from Quetta City. The road is lined on either side with wild
roses and fruit orchards. Peaches, plums, apricot and apples of many varieties are grown
in this valley. The waterfall at the end of the Urak Valley, which is full of apple and
apricot orchards, makes for an interesting picnic spot.
Hanna Lake is located at 10 Kms from Quetta, its a beautiful man made lake. Several
recreational facilities like boating, restaurants, cottages are available.
Quetta is famous for its traditional food particularly Sajji and Karai. The important picnic
sites include Hanna and Urak Vallies in the district while other tourism spots like Bund
Khushdil Khan, Ziarat are also easily accessible from Quetta.

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District Profile - Quetta 18

4 - Potential P rojects for In vestment

4 . 1 H o rt i c u l t u r e

4.1.1 Ice Pla nt

Climate of Quetta remains hot and humid for more than six months a year, ice
consumption both at domestic and industrial use is high. Furthermore, a large portion of
the population cannot afford refrigerators for domestic use. A growing market for ice
plants is industries linked to food products i.e. fish, poultry, dairy, bakeries, restaurants
etc. Their increasing demand for Ice has increased the demand of Ice plants in the
district.

4.1.2 Co ld storage s

Keeping in view the shelf life of the perishable food items it becomes essential to freeze
and store these products. . A large quantity of fresh fruits including apple, apricot,
grapes from all over the Balochistan are brought to Quetta. Similarly the Cold storage
can be used for vegetables and other perishable items. In addition to local demand a
large Quantity of Fruits are also exported to Afghanistan and other Central Asian States
through Quetta and a cold storage facility will also assist the exporters of these items.

4.1.3 Food Processing

Fruits & vegetables are seasonal and perishable commodities. These cannot be retained
by the growers for a long period. During the peak harvest season, when bulk supplies
arrive and the market is glutted with fruits and vegetables, prices fall down
substantially. This plant will utilize the low grade fruits of the Farming Community
which has a negligible price in the local market into valuable by-products which would
further used in Jam, Juices, Concentrates, Chutney, Candy etc. The by-products can be
prepared and packed according to the market acceptable standard, thus improving
quality, price and shelf life. The introduction of processing technology shall minimize
the post harvest losses, wastage of low grade fruits and increase quantity, quality, shelf
life and the availability of fruits through out the year.

As a large producer fruits and vegetables there are many opportunities for investors to
move into high end market in the processed and packaged food industry.
4.1.4 Fruits & Veg etab le d ehydration

Balochistan is far from tapping the potential of processing and exporting dried fruits and
vegetables. Dried fruits have a large number of end-users including use in the dried fruit
and nut industry, the breakfast cereal industry, the confectionery industry, the bakery
industry, other food products, and are consumed directly.
Dehydration offers an economical and satisfactory means to extend the shelf life of Fruits
and vegetables. The main advantages of dehydration over other methods of preservation
being that the dehydrated products are light in weight and occupy much less space than

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District Profile - Quetta 19

the original, frozen or canned materials they are Cheap to pack compared to tinned
materials and they are Stable under ordinary storage conditions. The dehydrated
vegetables can serve as a good stand-by either for daily dishes or for off season
consumption.
4.1.5 Green house farms and tunn e l F arms

Seasonal fruits and vegetables can be produced in off-season as well. Fruits and
vegetables are the major source of income in Agriculture sector of the district Quetta,
major fruits include Apple, Apricot, Grapes, Peach and Plum. The important Vegetables
of the district include Cabbage, Tomatoes, Carrot, Cauliflower, Pumpkins and Potato etc.
Production of high quality fruits and vegetables requires proper greenhouses where
environment is controlled. This controlled environment gives the producer control over
what kind of fruit and vegetables he wants to produce and under what conditions.
Another important aspect of using a greenhouse is that high quality products can be
produced all year round, irrespective of the weather that exists outside.
4.2 Mine rals

4.2.1 Co al Mining

Coal is the major mineral resource of district. Majority of coal mines in the district are
located at Sorange. Initially the major buyers of the coal were the brick clans mostly
located in Punjab but with the conversion of cement industries from Gas/Oil to coal fired
system greatly increased the demand of coal from the district.
4.2.2 Co al Washing Plan t

The cement industry is energy-based which constitutes 45 per cent of the cost of
production of cement. This includes both furnace oil and electricity. While the prises of
furnace oil and electricity are on rise, coal is a much cheaper alternative for cement
industry. To meet the requirement of the cement plants the coal miners would have to
upgrade their production to a uniform standard. This activity requires investment in the
coal washing plant where coal from different mines would be treated to a homogeneous
final product.
The washing plant would not only be able to process the coal produced in the district
but would also be able to process the coal produced in other districts of Balochistan.
The coal washing plant is a commercially viable project and therefore would attract
private investment. The whole operation would upgrade the coal sector as it would rate
the coal produced in Balochistan as a value-added product and would fetch a higher
price for it. Also the project would curb the imports of coal being made by the cement
industries.
4.2.3 Marble proce ssing uni ts and Han di craft ma nufa ctur ing unit s

There is abundance of the high quality marble through out Balochistan. There are a
number of marble processing plants working in the district but due to high quantity of
supply of raw marble most of marble and granite is processed out side the province.

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Marble and granite processing industry has been using modern techniques to come at
par with other provinces of the country but still it requires more for better quality
production. Processing plants with modern equipment will not only supply marble for
local use but would also supply to other parts of the province and within the country.
4.2.4 Marble Wareho use

There are a number of marble processing plants within Quetta district. The warehouse
will facilitate the buyers in selecting the stone of their choice and will enable them to
streamline the supply of consistent product to the end users/exporters in a given time
frame. The Warehouse would provide the storing, stacking, and cutting/squaring
services for irregular shaped blocks of Marble, Granite, and Onyx for their extractors and
processors in the district on rental basis.
4.2.5 Sto ne Crush ing

Over the last few years, the Construction sector has been registering strong growth rates
in the district. In addition to housing construction the crush is also used for the building
of roads and bypasses, and other developmental projects there is a mass and consistent
need of crushed stone across the district. Hard Lime Stone is the basic raw material
which is used for the production of quality crushed stone and enormous reserves of
Hard Lime Stone are found around the district in abundance

4.2.6 Chromite Bene ficia t io n

Chromite is found aboundently in the adjoining district of Muslim bagh and Pishin.
Most of the chromite is transported to Karachi for beneficiation. SMEs can save a large
amount on transportation costs by beneficiating the chromite in Quetta and carry a more
refined ore to Karachi for exports.
4.3 Livestock

4.3.1 Ta nnery:

Balochistan is producing a sizable quantity of hides and skins locally, besides local
production good quantity of hides and skins from Iran and Afghanistan is traded
through Quetta which at the moment is purchased by tanneries of Karachi. Investment
in a wet blue processing industry or a tannery can be a viable project.
4.3.2 Sausage mak ing :

Sheep casings produced in Balochistan are considered to be the best for preparation of
sausages and are exported in raw form to European countries. Any entrepreneur can
avail the chance of pioneer industry with good prospects of foreign exports.
4.3.3 Meat Proces sing

Balochistan produces 48 % Sheep 22 % Goats and 41 % of camels in the country. There is

no meat processing plant, neither in the district nor in the Province. Meat processing

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plant will not only bring value addition to the local resource but would also help in
supply safe meat for human consumption.
4.3.4 Ca ttle /Sheep /Goat s Fatte n in g Center

Since nutrition is a serous limiting factor in the livestock industry of Balochistan with the
result that many animals arrive at the market in less than optimal body condition with
body weight on the lower end, there is a dire need to ensure feed availability round the
year with proper protein contents for increasing livestock productivity rather then its
numbers. Such a situation directs to adopt nonconventional feed preparation and
feeding techniques like treatment of wheat/ rice straws and other crop residues with
urea or ammonia, molasses bocks, silage making , concentrate mixtures with low cost
formulae, feed lots, semi intensive farming and ewe flushing etc. With the switching
over to semi-intensive farming which would warrant stall/ supplementary feeding, non-
conventional and economical feeding techniques the livestock farming will become a
cost effective enterprise.
4.3.5 Dairy Fa rms

Peri-urban commercial milk production has developed rapidly in recent years in

response to growing urban milk demand in the district. The large peri-urban units have
herds ranging from 20 to 600 heads, almost all adult females buffalos. The cross breeding
measures with exotic European dairy breeds has also helped to build a good number of
herds of cross bred cows in and around Quetta which yield almost two to three times
more milk at the same cost. Even with a large number of peri urban dairy farms there is
a deficiency of almost 100,000 litres per day which is met through; liquid milk brought
from Jacobabad and Shikarpur in iced form and frozen cans after adding chemicals for
prolonging its shelf life, Packed UHT milk of different brands and imported dry whole
milk powder. There is lucrative market of milk in Quetta due to low production against
heavy demand of fresh and liquid milk.
4.3.6 Poultry Farm

As compare to beef and mutton broiler meat is the cheapest source of animal protein.
The time required for raising broiler birds is less that that for big animals. The
consumption of white meat is increasing due to growing health consciousness in the
masses. Quetta, Lasbela and Pishin are the major poultry rearing areas of Balochistan.
Poultry farming has got great scope for investment in the district. There are only few
private poultry farms in the district and most of the demand is met through transport of
poultry products from other parts of county. Due to dry weather and colder temperature
theses districts provides the best areas for Breeders poultry farming in the province.
4.4 O ther Secto rs

4.4.1 Re -rolling mil ls:

Steel is a vital component of modern construction. Iron and steel is used widely in the
construction of roads, railways and in infrastructure of bridges and buildings. To
strengthen a construction structure, steel is used in mostly in the shape of Iron rods of

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District Profile - Quetta 22

varying lengths and sizes. The demand of iron rods is very high not only due to the
increasing number of construction projects within the district but there is also great
demand of iron in Afghanistan due to reconstruction activities.
The scrap is being imported from Russia, Central Asian Countries through Quetta. The
other sources of raw materials are ship breaking industry at Gadanni. The availability of
raw material and demand for iron bars makes establishment of Steel Re-Rolling Mill a
viable project.
4.4.2 PVC Produc ts

In addition to iron bars there is also a great demand of PVC products in construction
industry. Latest trend is to use the, proven cost effectiveness, micro organism resistant,
corrosion free, and durable PVC pipes for Water Flow and Air Flow. In addition to
construction projects these pipes are also being used by Agriculture Department in
different Irrigation Projects.

4.4.3 Hospi tal s a nd Clin ic s:

Lack of infrastructure and growing number of population has increased demand of
medical facilities, which has direct impact on public & private sector health care centers.
No access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities has posed a major threat to the
health of masses. Moreover, the overlapping and harsh climate of the region causes
major viral diseases through out the year. This creates a great demand for hospitals and
clinics.

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District Profile - Quetta 23

5 - An nexure

Hanna Lake

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District Profile - Quetta 24

Jinnah Road

Quetta At Night

Quetta Air Port

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District Profile - Quetta 25

Quetta Railway Station

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District Profile - Quetta 26

Quetta Serena Hotel

SMEDA Balochistan