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Balochistan Sees CPEC as Dispossession, Not Development: Report

A new report states that for many in resource-rich but poor Balochistan, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is perceived as an instrument of dispossession rather than development. It highlights that despite the technological development of Gwadar port, local communities lack basic facilities like water and healthcare. The report argues centralized decision-making and an influx of external labor intensify fears of demographic and cultural marginalization. The long-term viability of CPEC depends on Pakistan adopting a more inclusive federal structure that respects Baloch regional identity.

Key Points: CPEC Fuels Dispossession in Balochistan, Report Finds

  • CPEC seen as dispossession in Balochistan
  • Gwadar lacks water, healthcare, jobs
  • Centralized planning excludes locals
  • Security focus distorts governance
  • Fears of demographic marginalisation
2 min read

Balochistan perceives CPEC more as a dispossession than development: Report

Report reveals Balochistan views China-Pakistan CPEC as dispossession, not development, citing lack of basic facilities and local exclusion.

"China-Pakistan Strategic Convergence is perceived less as a development opportunity and more as a dispossession - CESCUBE Report"

New Delhi, Jan 26

Balochistan, despite its abundant reserves of natural gas, coal, copper and gold -- remains one of the poorest provinces in Pakistan, a new report has said, adding that for many in Balochistan, "China-Pakistan Strategic Convergence is perceived less as a development opportunity and more as a dispossession".

According to an article in CESCUBE, the "resource revenues extracted by federal authorities and military linked enterprises rarely reinvest in local development -- reinforcing economic disparity and political alienation".

The Gwadar port in Balochistan has developed in terms of its technology, "yet the communities in the province continue to lack basic facilities like water, healthcare, and long-term employment", the article argues.

Gwadar illustrates the effects of being connected without integration -- a condition which fuels instability, particularly in regions where historical grievances remain unresolved, said the report.

The future of Balochistan and the long-term viability of China-Pakistan Strategic Convergence (CPEC) depends on whether Pakistan can move towards a more inclusive federal structure that respects regional identities and local governance.

"The CPEC has been outlined as a catalyst for interconnectedness and national growth. For Islamabad, this serves as an economic revival as well as a geopolitical tool and for Beijing - it offers strategic access to the Arabian Sea and diversification of trade routes," the article states.

The province has been reduced to a mere transit space, rather than a political stakeholder in the corridors-based planning.

"The decision-making process is centralised, with limited local consultation, and opportunities disproportionately benefitting non-Baloch labours. This influx of external workers, combined with the militarisation of project zones, has intensified fears of demographic marginalisation and cultural erosion," said the report.

Chinese workers and installations have increasingly become targets of insurgent violence in the province. Pakistan has extensively deployed security forces in the province, establishing dedicated protection units and surveillance units to safeguard the CPEC.

However, this securitisation distorts governance priorities, said the report.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's heartbreaking to read about the lack of basic facilities like water and healthcare in Gwadar, while a high-tech port is built there. This is classic exploitation. The people of Balochistan deserve better from their own government.
R
Rohit P
The centralised decision-making and bringing in non-Baloch labour is a recipe for disaster. No wonder there is instability. Pakistan needs to learn from India's federal structure where states have a voice. Jai Hind!
S
Sarah B
While the geopolitical angle of CPEC is often discussed, this human cost is frequently ignored. The report rightly points out the "demographic marginalisation and cultural erosion" fears. Development should be for the people, not over them.
V
Vikram M
A province full of natural wealth but its people live in poverty. The resources are taken away, and nothing is given back. This is not development, it's colonialism by another name. Pakistan's treatment of Balochistan is a shame.
K
Karthik V
I have a slightly different take. While the criticism is valid, we must also acknowledge that large infrastructure projects are complex. The hope is that eventually, some trickle-down effect will happen. But the current approach clearly needs serious correction and more local inclusion.
M
Meera T

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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