An Analysis of CPEC Projects in Hazara Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

The relationship between China and Pakistan encompasses many dimensions despite
differences in their political, economic and social systems. Their bilateral ties gradualy
grew, widened, and deepended with every passing moment sience their inception.
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor signifies ever expanding horizon of bilateral
cooperation between the two states. The projects promises win-win situation for both
countries and believed to be a game changer for Pakistan. It is estimated that CPEC will
provide employment to 6-10 million people till 2030. It will usher into a new era of
socio-economic development in different parts of Pakistan especially the neglected and
backward areas. The paper analysess the CPEC projects planned and executed in
Hazara division and their potential contbitution to the socio-economic development of
the area. The study uses qualitative research and descriptive and analytical techniques.
Data collected from primary and secondary sources was scrutinized through thematic
analysis method to draw the conclusions. The study found that three projects, i. e.
Havelian Dry Port, Hazara Motorway and Suki Kinari Hydropower Project would
significantly contribute to the socio-economic development of the area. The proposed
special economic zone in Hattar industrial state could help ameliorate the sense of
deprivation of the local people but it could not be approved. The projects are likely to
pose cultural challenges to local people that warrant careful strategy to be pursued by
the local people and national leadership.