Gwadar, the focal point of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, has been touted as a developmental model for two decades. China’s investments in the city encompass various projects, such as constructing a world-class airport and operationalizing the port. Despite substantial investment and the completion of the East Bay Expressway connecting to the Coastal Highway, Gwadar still grapples with a lack of basic amenities.
Claims of progress in Gwadar are contradicted by recurring floods, during which government agencies struggle to safeguard the city and its residents.
Recent floods have inflicted extensive damage on Gwadar, causing house collapses, displacing hundreds of people—especially women and children—into temporary shelters, and fostering the spread of diseases in affected areas.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee persists in providing relief to flood victims across Balochistan, establishing a medical camp in Gwadar. However, government agencies seek to impede their efforts, underscoring a lack of government commitment.
While inadequate infrastructure contributes to flooding in Gwadar, climate change is a significant factor. Developing long-term policies to address climate change is crucial, as relying solely on reactive measures will not suffice for flood prevention in Gwadar and adjacent regions. Urgent action is needed of the time to combat climate change; otherwise, the sinking and destruction of Balochistan’s cities will persist indefinitely.