Socio-economic impacts of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) at community level : case study of Gwadar Pakistan

Abstract

Development brings prosperity to the nations. The mega development projects such as sea ports, dams, infrastructures, railways, airportsetc. offerbetter employment opportunitiesand improved standard of lifein the country and gradually move the country from developing to developed States. At the same time, these mega projects forced people to leave their homes in the name of development. Development-induced displacements or forced evictions badly affect the socio-economic and socio-cultural aspects of the communities. Lack of adequate planning often make the affected people homeless and jobless for rest of their life. The resettlement policies are usually focused to compensate the affected communities in monetary terms. The need is to include socio-cultural aspect in resettlement policies to create positive social impact on affected communities. This study looks at the problems faced by fisherfolk of Gwadarin result of mega developments under CPEC. The livelihood of fisherfolk of Gwadar is disturbed since development work stated at Gwadar port. There is a high risk to fisherfolk of Gwadar will become more vulnerable soon due to the development-induced displacement. The situation will be more critical if the displacement affect the social life patterns of fisherfolk of Gwadar who are already exposed to the problems of water scarcity, health facilities and education since long.