CPEC Set to Unleash Growth Potential in Untapped Sectors of Balochistan

The pivotal question arises: Has Balochistan reaped the rewards of its strategic location, resources, and Gwadar port? Paradoxically, the answer remains unconvincing thus far, as these advantages have failed to alleviate the grievances of its populace. Balochistan currently ranks as Pakistan's most underdeveloped province, lagging significantly in key development indicators. Nonetheless, optimism prevails among Balochistan's people, who see CPEC as a potential game-changer and a beacon of hope capable of alleviating their hardships. CPEC carries immense potential to catalyze progress and development within the province. The construction of the western route in Balochistan promises to meet the expectations of its indigenous population and affirm their stake in CPEC. Balochistan's current GDP per capita trails far behind other provinces, but the economic zones along the western route are poised to boost its prosperity.

Unlocking Balochistan's full potential could start by increasing its share of the $64 billion CPEC projects, potentially setting the stage for prosperity and development. With 51 metallic and non-metallic minerals discovered, including gold, copper, chromite, iron, zinc, lead, fluorite, magnetite, barite, coal, and gabbro basalt, systematic resource utilization under CPEC could position Balochistan as one of the world's wealthiest regions.

Often referred to as "the fruit basket of Pakistan," Balochistan contributes substantially to the national production of cherries, grapes, almonds, pomegranates, peaches, apricots, apples, and dates. Addressing power shortages, water scarcity, and establishing crop-specific zones under CPEC could significantly boost production and facilitate the export of these fruits to international markets. Additionally, Balochistan's blue economy remains largely untapped, with coastal areas teeming with shrimp, lobster, and cuttlefish. Expanding the blue economy under CPEC promises to fortify the fisheries sector in Balochistan.

Balochistan's coastal regions are home to the world's sixth-largest mangrove forests, contributing $4 billion annually to Pakistan's export earnings. A pragmatic approach to CPEC could harness the potential of mangrove production, benefiting both Pakistan and Balochistan. The livestock sector, ideally suited to Balochistan's climate, has the potential to become a hub for the Halal Meat Industry, a burgeoning global business attracting Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

The scenic beauty and historical sites along Balochistan's coastline, including Hammerhead in Gwadar, Ormara beaches, and Astola Island, remain underexplored. Investing in Public Sector Development Programmes (PSDP) adjacent to the Makran Coastal Highway under CPEC could generate economic opportunities. Balochistan's alluring landscapes have the potential to attract domestic and foreign tourists, as demonstrated by the historic Mehrgarh archaeological site near Bolan River, the oldest civilization in Pakistan. Fostering tourism in Mehrgarh under CPEC could transform Pakistan into a sought-after destination for global travelers.

CPEC facilitates regional connectivity by linking Balochistan with Afghanistan and Central Asia, potentially increasing GDP per capita for Balochistan and expanding Pakistan's trade with these regions. Recognizing the youth of Balochistan as valuable assets, offering generous Chinese scholarships could empower them for the challenges of the 21st century. Currently, China hosts 22,000 Pakistani students, but Balochistan's share in these scholarships remains limited. Expanding Chinese scholarships for Balochistan's students could instill pride and a strong commitment to serving their province and Pakistan.

In conclusion, Balochistan serves as the nervous system of Pakistan, and a weak and fragile nervous system could undermine the nation's well-being. Fostering Balochistan's progress through fair resource allocation, Chinese scholarships, the establishment of Special Economic Zones, and universities under CPEC could mitigate the sense of deprivation within the province and contribute significantly to Pakistan's overall prosperity.