CPEC: Socio, Cultural and Economic Effects on Gilgit-Baltistan

Abstract

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) serves as a major South Asian infrastructure initiative which seeks to unify areas through expanded connectivity and economic cooperation. Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) stands as a vital transit area within CPEC because it faces extensive changes involving economic growth and cultural shifts as well as environmental impacts. A qualitative investigation using secondary resources examines how CPEC affects Gilgit-Baltistan. The acceleration of economic growth and infrastructure upgrade and trade expansion through CPEC brings specific employment balance issues as well as cultural transitions and environmental deterioration and governance related challenges. The economic possibilities of CPEC coexist with limited opportunities for skilled employment which are allocated to outside workers - leading to doubts about fair development practices. The impact of businesses operating in the area together with foreign linguistic influences threatens the traditional lifestyle and local culture which leads to cultural decline. Large construction activities in the region produce environmental impacts like deforestation alongside pollution and glacial retreat which endanger its sensitive natural systems. A vital political problem persists because Gilgit-Baltistan operates without influencing policy decisions for CPEC. To achieve lasting success in Gilgit-Baltistan through CPEC the project requires both inclusive economic policies alongside sustainable development platforms along with cultural maintenance safeguards and governmental reforms. The author proposes implementing workforce development initiatives combined with environmental protection measures and clear governance systems to distribute CPEC-related benefits fairly across all stakeholders.