To ensure the success of CPEC and gain the support of local communities, it is crucial to prioritize basic needs, such as education, healthcare, clean water, and electricity. Additionally, involving local residents in policy-making and decision-making processes can help bridge the gap between expectations and outcomes.
Introduction and Background:
When the China-Pakistan Economy Corridor (CPEC) agreement was signed, the people of Balochistan, especially Gwadar, had great expectations. However they anticipated this massive deal to have an impact on the development of Gwadar and the lives of the local people, as well as create jobs and other employment opportunities, , but that doesn’t seem to be the case.
Around $470 million has been spent on four projects, funded by grants from China. and the remaining funds are loans that need to be paid back to Pakistan. The total value of the contracts signed is currently $792 million dollars.
According to a report, 14 projects in Gwadar are under CPEC, but the projects that have been initiated and are about to start are as follows.
1: Gwadar East Bay Express Way (GWEW) linking the port with the main artery of the National Highway. Worth $140m, 1700 jobs for the locals. Category Loan and Grant.
Currently, Gwadar Deep-Sea Port is connected through a narrow 16-foot-wide thoroughfare of Gwadar town at the West Bay. All the trucks loaded with imported shipments pass through this strip causing disruption of normal traffic.
The port does not have a dedicated wide highway to cater to the transporting requirements of the post. In order for the port to be operational with the available 04 multi-purpose berths, it necessitates the construction of the planned East Bay expressway. This 6-lane expressway along with a provision of 30 meters wide railway corridor shall connect the port with the Makran Coastal Highway (N-20) through the 2281 acres Free Trade Zone of Gwadar Port.
This is the responsibility of the Gwadar Port Authority and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.
2. New Gwadar International Airport (GIA): Worth $230m, 3000 jobs, Category Grant.
The construction of the new Gwadar International Airport (NGIA), along with allied facilities for a new airport will be capable of handling a combination of ATR 72, Airbus, (A-300), Boeing (B-737), and Boeing (B-747) for domestic as well international routes.
3. Construction of Breakwaters: Estimated, $123m, Category Loan & Grant.
Besides the operation of the existing port facilities, the operator has to carry out expansion works all along the seashore of Gwadar East Bay constructing additional terminals and port infrastructure. Under the Concession Agreement, however, construction of breakwaters and dredging works are the responsibility of Gwadar Port Authority. For the construction of berthing facilities on the eastern side of the existing multi-purpose terminal (4.200 km), a 1.200-1.500 km long breakwater has to be constructed.
4. Dreading of Berthing areas and canals: $27m Loan.
To facilitate the construction of additional terminals at Gwadar Port by its operator and for smooth shipments to and from the existing berthing facilities, this project has been proposed for carrying out capital and maintenance dredging.
5. Development and Free Zone: $32m, 240 Jobs for local.
At present the following area has been allocated as a free zone of Gwadar and pieces of land have already been earmarked/acquired for the purpose:
Gwadar Port Free Zone: Around 6,280 acres of infrastructure is required for the development of this industrial zone, for example, access to roads, water, gas, power, custom facilities, fencing, security, a few warehouses, offices and other allied infrastructure, etc.
- Mini Project: Gwadar Smart Port City (GSPC) Master Plan. 4.M$
For creating the vision and guiding strategic objectives for Gwadar City, the existing Master Plan of Gwadar City needs to be updated and integrated with the Master Plan of the Gwadar Port. Furthermore, the need to create an inclusive and sustainable strategic development plan to ensure the socio-economic uplift of the Makran coast in general, and the Gwadar Region in particular. Also, recommending regulatory interventions as means to develop Gwadar as a ‘Special Economic Zone’ (SEZ) and ensure near-term economic growth (including trickle-down effects)
6. Pak-China Vocational Training Centre (CVTC): S10m, 135 Jobs
The people of Gwadar are the main stakeholders of the Port City of Gwadar hence their participation in the operation & management of the deep-sea port, industrial and commercial businesses, and in urbanization processes is key to all long-term developmental initiatives. This project is also proposed to shape and enhance the skills of the active population of Gwadar to participate in the growth of the Port City.
7. Pak-China Friendship Hospital (PCFH), S100m, 35 Jobs for local. Grant
This project is proposed for the implementation of Phase II of 50-beds hospital constructed under the GDA Business Plan (Federal PSDP). The hospital is planned on 68 acres of land. One out of six medical blocks (each 50 bedded) and almost 20% of the residential blocks are completed. Under the proposed project remaining medical blocks, nursing and paramedical institutes, medical colleges, central laboratories, and other allied facilities are to be constructed with a supply of medical equipment and machinery.
8. Facilities for Water supply / Sewage Treatment: 130m$, Grant.
There are around 5000 jobs in the above-mentioned projects. However, did the local people gain employment so far? If these jobs are distributed among local people on merit, then 30% reservation of the local people will be erased..)
Routes and Concerns:
There are concerns of various political parties regarding the routes of CPEC, due to which CPEC is not getting unconditional public acceptance. Critics argue that there is a big change from the planned paths of CPEC and non-transparent policies under which Balochistan is being neglected and their sense of deprivation is increasing. Some Baloch nationalist circles are opposing these plans wholesome political parties have expressed their reservations about them.
Since Gwadar Port and other related projects, a major part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will pass through the land border of Balochistan. Officials are calling these projects a game changer for Pakistan and Balochistan, while the Baloch populated areas are not very enthusiastic about these projects. Among the concerns expressed by the Baloch nationalist circles, the biggest fear is that these projects will turn the local population of Gwadar into a minority. Baloch nationalist circles say that legislation should be implemented regarding Gwadar so that the local people can get a chance to benefit from this important project.
Qaisar Bangali, Former Adviser to Chief Minister Balochistan: “They did not get a satisfactory answer despite continuous questions regarding the route of the Ministry of Planning A draft – first they said there is no change in the route, then they kept saying that all three routes will be built together and lastly they said that the three routes would be separate and explained why to create a new route when there is an eastern route.”
Fisherman Issues and Illegal Trawling:
“On top of that, we aren’t allowed to go out to sea when there’s VIP movement. In fact, sometimes after we’ve been out fishing the whole night, and are returning to shore to unload our catch at Gwadar Fish Harbour, we’re made to wait at sea on our boats from dawn to dusk on the pretext of VIP movement. We run out of food and water while waiting because we take limited provisions with us.”
Moreover, there is the menace of illegal trawling. Deep-sea trawlers are not allowed to fish within 12 nautical miles of a country’s maritime boundary, but the practice has been going on for years with impunity. The arrival of 12 new Chinese trawlers at Karachi harbor in October 2020 had exacerbated the fishermen’s concerns.
Local fishermen complain that the trawlers make a beeline for the best spots. Some of these locations are nestled among what they say are the mountains on the seabed off Gwadar. One of them is in fact called Koh-i-Dap (the mouth of the mountain). “Trawlers arrive there and deprive us of the fish,” alleges Gulzar Baloch, while unloading his catch at Gwadar Fish Harbour. “When they come across us, they throw chunks of ice and small stones at us and chase us away,”
In this regard Chinese Consul General Li Bijian responded (Dawn Report):
“The Chinese trawlers were fishing in international waters. Stormy conditions at sea forced them to enter Pakistan’s waters in the Gwadar area. Through our consulate in Karachi, they communicated their request for safe passage to the federal government and the Coast Guards. Having been given permission, the trawlers stayed for a few days in Gwadar before leaving. Chinese companies have instructions to abide by the law and fish in international waters, and avoid doing so in territorial waters of regional countries,”
“China has always been interested in the betterment of fishermen along the Balochistan coast, which is why they provided them with small boat engines, fishing nets, special incubators and marine life-saving kits and other material.”
While lauding the quality of seafood available in Pakistan, he describes the techniques of fishing used here as outdated; fishermen, he said, need to upgrade to large fishing vessels, for one thing. “This could be an example of cooperation — Pakistan imports large fishing boats from China while Pakistan exports seafood to China.”
Local Community’s Grievances and Recommendation:
Local community support is mandatory for the implementation, and operation of CPEC projects. If local citizens have positive perspectives toward the development of the CPEC, then they will provide support to contribute to the development phases. However, the local residents support changes with the benefits given.
Under the Pak-China Vocational Training Centre project, technical and interpersonal training can be given to the local youngsters, as they will at least not indulge in violent activities. However, I understand that there is a conflict between the interests of China and the priorities of our bureaucracy and policymakers.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is said to have its heart in Balochistan, particularly in Gwadar. Pakistan’s Balochistan has long been a neglected and backward province. Compared to other Pakistani provinces, Balochistan has a lower population due to its open terrain. The vast list of factors contributing to Balochistan’s backwardness includes elected officials, influential people, locally formed separatist groups fighting within the state, and people whose narratives have hampered the region’s peace, prosperity, and progress.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor agreement was acknowledged as a revolutionary development for South and Central Asia, as well as for China and Pakistan individually. However, despite celebrating eight years of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project, Pakistan was unable to alter its course and continued to regress in its growth, with the failure of the CPEC being a major contributing factor.
We cannot disregard regional leadership at the local level since they haven’t focused enough on the development and equitable distribution of projects and developments to locals, even as we hold national-level leadership and policymakers accountable for the ups and downs in CPEC projects. A number of significant CPEC projects have been initiated in Gwadar; the New Gwadar International Airport, East Bay Express Way, Pak-China Vocational and Technical Institute, and Pak-China Friendship Hospital.
Among these projects, the Pak-China Vocational and Technical Institute, and the Pak-China Friendship Hospital are two of the initiatives that have directly benefited the people and will have a greater positive impact on their lives than the others. However, other projects of such nature have not been able to help the locals. High-quality universities, infrastructure, roads, dams, and most importantly, clean drinking water and electricity—two necessities for human survival—are lacking for the people of Balochistan.
A significant gap in the community’s support for such large-scale projects has been caused by a lack of effort to improve the lives of the residents. As they say, until the local population is excluded, a development or change cannot be referred to as a change.
Shahdad Baloch, Activist and Citizen Journalist “The State of Pakistan has so far started billion-dollar initiatives in Balochistan, but we have not only seen these projects not completed, but we have also failed to include the local population in these projects either as participants or beneficiaries. There is a misperception and a lack of understanding between the locals and development initiatives or programs.”
“Unfortunately, the state has never made an effort to inform the people living there about how they are a part of this shift that will soon alter their future.
Initiatives are desperately needed to not only educate the people of Balochistan, particularly in Gwadar and the “Makaran division,” but also to mobilize a larger number of them to take the lead on these projects.
Prioritizing the resolution of issues pertaining to fundamental necessities, such as clean drinking water, power, high-quality healthcare, and education, is essential. The likelihood of such massive, game-changing projects receiving support and acceptance is extremely low in the absence of solutions to the aforementioned issues. The final and most crucial element is the urgent need to include local indigenous people in policy-making, consultation and resolution of local issues.”
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a game-changer project for China and Pakistan. CPEC is an ambitious project, aiming at changing the geo-economic dynamics of the Pak-Sino relationship and augmenting trading activities. However, there is an ongoing discussion on the benefits of CPEC on local communities as well as on the challenges for the local communities.
When it comes to the benefits of CPEC, local communities are expected to receive economic, social and intellectual benefits from the CPEC. For example, Gwadar Deep-sea Port (GDP) and Gwadar International Airports (GIA) in are expected to generate thousands of employment for local people. According to officials, thousands of job opportunities create these mega projects.
Similarly, local people, if involved in professional business and trading, can earn income from the international market. Moreover, internal remittance always surges where small businesses such as shops, general stores and restaurants can benefit.
However, the local population is concerned that because there is a lack of money, locals will not be able to purchase Gwadar when international investors come to make their investments.
The area where the local fishermen used to go fishing is currently under development, so moving forward, fishing will not be permitted there, and the fishermen will still not be given a location for their activities.
Additionally, within the dynamics of CPEC, local communities are receiving scholarships in China. These scholarships foster cross-cultural understanding and interaction in addition to providing recipients with the necessary current skills. If handled well, CPEC can result in a decrease in poverty, criminal activity, and conflict. Also, CPEC may inspire women to pursue higher education and attain social and economic empowerment. Infrastructure such as roads, electricity projects, Internet accessibility, and railroads can also aid local communities. These facilities can be used by them to grow their small businesses.
In this regard local journalist Zareef Baloch:
“Not to mention, local communities can take the front stage since they stand a better chance of having their issues addressed. Local communities gain political empowerment as a result of this. They can obtain political rights, voice, and input into decision-making.”
“According to officials, the Gwadar new and refurbished seaport, the Gwadar International Airport (which is under construction), health and educational facilities, and energy production projects including wind turbine, solar power, and hydropower are just a few of the megaprojects included in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Along with upgraded railway tracks and roads to connect the Special Economic Zones (SEZs). While some of these initiatives are ongoing, the motorway has already been finished.”
Lastly, he emphasized, “However, CPEC is not devoid of challenges for local communities. Socially, they are at risk of being assimilated and losing cultural identity, and lands. Moreover, CPEC may create a number of health and environmental issues by polluting air, land and cities. Another challenge of CPEC for local communities is a shortage of required skills and investment. The local communities may not receive equal benefits because they can neither invest much nor attain employment. Thus, it can be said that CPEC is bringing benefits and challenges to the local communities. If this project is properly designed and implemented, opportunities are numerous.”
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has brought both hope and concern to the people of Balochistan, particularly in Gwadar. The initial expectations of development, job opportunities, and improved livelihoods have been met with mixed results.
While several projects under CPEC have been initiated, including the Gwadar East Bay Expressway, New Gwadar International Airport, and vocational training centers, some key issues remain unresolved.
One significant concern is the lack of clarity and transparency regarding the routes and changes in the CPEC plan, which has raised suspicions and opposition from various political parties and Baloch nationalist circles. The fear of the local population becoming a minority due to these projects adds to the apprehension.
The region’s fishermen have faced difficulties, including as disruptions in their fishing operations brought on by VIP movements and foreign vessels engaging in illicit trawling. Although efforts have been made to resolve these problems, concerns still persist.
Local communities have experienced benefits as well as faced challenges from CPEC. Positive aspects include the creation of jobs, scholarships for study in China, and improvements to infrastructure. However, there are concerns over cultural assimilation, environmental effects, and the necessity of larger expenditures and skill-building programs in order for locals to fully engage in and profit from CPEC projects.
To ensure the success of CPEC and gain the support of local communities, it is crucial to prioritize basic needs, such as education, healthcare, clean water, and electricity. Additionally, involving local residents in policy-making and decision-making processes can help bridge the gap between expectations and outcomes.
In conclusion, CPEC has the potential to bring substantial benefits to Balochistan and Pakistan. However, in order to fully realize this, and guarantee a more equitable distribution of its benefits, it is imperative to first address the challenges encountered by the local population.
Key Words:
CPEC, Balochistan, Gwadar, Makaran, Fisherman, Local Community and Vocational Training.
Abbreviation my Own Creation Except, CPEC
CPEC: China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
GDP: Gwadar Deep-see Port
GIA: Gwadar International Airport
GEEW Gwadar Eastbay Expressway
GSPC Gwadar Smart Port City
CVTC China Vocational Training Centre
PCFH Pak-China Friendship Hospital
