Insights on the natural resources in Balochistan

Abstract

Natural gas from the Dera Bugti District in Balochistan has fueled Pakistan's industrial growth and domestic consumption for over sixty years. While Bolan Mining Enterprises and the Duddar Lead-Zinc Project in Lasbela District represent major mineral development efforts in the province, the only working metal mines in the nation are the Saindak and Reko Diq sites in Chagai District. Despite Balochistan's wealth of natural resources, these have not translated into economic prosperity for Pakistan; rather, they have led to a resource curse marked by extreme poverty, underdevelopment, and persistent internal conflicts. While Balochistan's resources and strategic location offer substantial economic potential for Pakistan, they have also contributed to serious law and order challenges, driven by sub-nationalism and ethnic insurgency. These insurgencies arise from deep-rooted grievances among Baloch nationalists, linked to ongoing resource exploitation, economic deprivation, and political marginalization. In addition to examining Balochistan's mineral and hydrocarbon resources, this study examines the interrelated themes of sub-nationalism, avarice, grievances, and the resource curse.