Ahmed Khan Malik

The Balochistan government has launched a series of projects to unlock the economic and environmental potential of the province’s coastal belt.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to uplift the coastal communities, enhance marine resources management, promote tourism, and strengthen infrastructure along the Arabian Sea coastline. The coastal development projects represent a strategic vision for the future of Balochistan — one that leverages its natural assets for economic growth while protecting its fragile ecosystem.

Stretching over 770 kilometres, Balochistan’s coastline is among the longest in Pakistan, yet it has remained largely underdeveloped for decades, budget 2025-26 documents reveal. However, with growing attention from both the provincial and federal governments, the region is now witnessing renewed attention, with multiple development projects being initiated to harness its natural wealth and strategic location.

The newly-launched projects include the construction of fishing harbors, improvement of coastal roads, establishment of seafood processing zones, and measures to protect the marine ecosystem.

“The government is also focusing on creating livelihood opportunities for local fishermen and investing in training and equipment upgrades to modernise the fishing industry, which forms the backbone of the coastal economy,” Hussain Notezai, Consultant Coastal Development Authority, told WealthPK.

He said that one of the major undertakings is the modernization and expansion of the Gwadar Fish Harbor, which aims to boost seafood exports and generate employment in the region. “Similar harbor development projects are also underway in Pasni, Ormara, and Jiwani, where local communities depend heavily on fishing for survival,” he pointed out.

Notezai said that the provincial government is also investing in road infrastructure to improve connectivity between coastal towns and major cities. “The Makran Coastal Highway, already a vital link, is being enhanced to facilitate trade and tourism. With improved road access, the government expects to see increased domestic and international tourist activity in the scenic coastal towns of Balochistan.”

Additionally, the government has announced the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) to conserve biodiversity and regulate fishing practices. These MPAs will help ensure sustainable use of marine resources, protect endangered species, and reduce environmental degradation caused by unregulated activities, Notezai said.

“The coastal belt is a treasure trove of resources and opportunity. Through these projects, we aim to provide economic opportunities, ensure environmental sustainability, and bring long-term prosperity to the coastal districts of Balochistan,” he said, adding that international partners, including environmental NGOs and development agencies, are also collaborating with the provincial government to ensure that development is both sustainable and community-driven.

Training programmes are being introduced for local fishermen on sustainable fishing techniques, safety at sea, and value-added processing to increase income levels, he said.

The Coastal Development Authority consultant said that local communities will benefit from these projects as they will lead to improved living standards, better access to healthcare and education, and more employment opportunities. He said that transparency, timely execution, and active community involvement in all stages of project implementation are being ensured.

Credit: INP-WealthPk