BALOCHISTAN is rich in natural resources, especially natural gas and other mineral reserves, which are in abundance and provide countless opportunities to foreign and local investors. There have been several initiatives over the years, promising a number of socio-economic benefits for the province, but they can only be materialised when other problems associated with the mineral sector are identified and addressed, including lack of financial resources and technical expertise.

Pakistan lacks the monetary resources for large-scale ventures, which are eventually funded by foreign investors, and there are only a few technical institutions producing a small percentage of professionals with the required theoretical and practical knowledge of geology, computerised mining operations, and specialised machinery.

Moreover, most resources are in areas with poor transport links, increasing the transportation costs. Balochistan itself has poor infrastructure and a low population density. Many foreign mining companies are reluctant to conduct operations in Pakistan considering terrorist attacks in the region. Mining should be done on scientific and sustainable lines to reduce environmental degradation which follows a mining operation, posing a threat to the health of the miners as well.

It is true that effective and well-planned initiatives for the mining sector will not only expand the mineral industry, but will also provide incentives to local and foreign investors alongside the promotion of tourism in the province. However, the associated shortcomings must be tackled effectively to ensure progress in the region.

Zernab Akram
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, January 15th, 2021