Gwadar Press Club

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Read thought-provoking columns, expert views, and personal perspectives on local and national issues. Our Opinions section offers diverse voices and in-depth analysis to spark meaningful dialogue and reflection.

Suleman Hashim

Exploring China: A Journey Through Beijing, Zhuhai, and

A Journey Through Modern China: Discovering History, Tranquility, and Innovation By Suleman HashimFormer President, Gwadar Press Club China – November 14 to 24My recent ten-day journey across China took me from the historic heart of Beijing to the peaceful shores of Zhuhai and finally to the cutting-edge cityscape of Shenzhen. Each stop revealed a different side of China, its deep cultural roots, calm coastal charm, and bold technological ambitions. It all began with a warm welcome in Beijing, where a gracious host greeted us at the airport. This kind gesture set the tone for what would become an unforgettable exploration of a country balancing the old and the new. Beijing: Where the Past Meets the Present (November 14–17) As the capital of China, Beijing is a city steeped in history yet fully connected to the modern world. From the moment I began walking through its vibrant streets, the city’s energy and cultural depth were clear. Visiting the Great Wall of China was a moment I’ll never forget. Its massive scale and centuries-old structure spoke volumes about the nation’s historical resilience. The Forbidden City, once the royal palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, further pulled me into China’s imperial past. Its detailed architecture and well-preserved grounds made me feel as if I had stepped into a living history book. Culinary experiences in Beijing were just as rich. Breakfasts at our hotel were delightful, and evenings were spent savoring dishes at Indian and Turkish restaurants that added an international flavor to our stay. Zhuhai: Calm by the Coast (November 18–20) Leaving behind Beijing’s fast pace, we headed to Zhuhai, a quiet coastal city known for its scenic beauty and slower rhythm. The peaceful atmosphere was a welcome contrast, with gentle sea breezes, clean streets, and relaxing walks along the shore. One of Zhuhai’s most iconic landmarks is the Fisher Girl Statue, a symbol of the city’s deep ties to the sea. At the Zhuhai Museum, I explored traditional Chinese art and historical artifacts that told stories of maritime life and cultural evolution. Seafood lovers would find paradise in Zhuhai. Fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared, the cuisine showcased the region’s coastal bounty. Shenzhen: Glimpse of the Future (November 21–24) Our final stop was Shenzhen, a modern city that represents China’s rapid rise in global innovation. From the moment we entered the city, its skyline, innovation hubs, and economic buzz signaled a very different kind of China—one focused on the future. I visited the Window of the World, a theme park featuring replicas of famous monuments from around the globe. It offered a fun and educational way to experience global culture in one place. The Shenzhen Museum highlighted the city’s transformation from a fishing village into a global technology powerhouse. But perhaps the most impressive part of this leg of the trip was our guided visit to the Shenzhen Port, one of the world’s busiest. With 87 cranes and 280 cargo-handling machines, the scale and efficiency of operations were stunning, especially when thinking about Gwadar’s own aspirations for port development. Reflections on a Remarkable Journey As we departed China on November 24, I looked back with deep appreciation. From Beijing’s historic landmarks to Zhuhai’s calm shores and Shenzhen’s technological rise, each city had offered something unique. What stood out most was China’s ability to balance tradition and progress. The nation’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and economic achievements made a lasting impression on me. This journey wasn’t just about visiting places—it was about understanding how a country can honor its past while building its future. Published in Gwadar Press Club.

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Suleman Hashim

Gwadar: The Vanishing Heritage of a Historic Port City

Gwadar’s Forgotten Heritage: Historic Port Faces Identity Crisis Efforts to restore colonial-era structures offer hope for preserving the city’s cultural legacy By Suleman Hashim | Senior Journalist, Ex-President Gwadar Press Club Once a prominent coastal trading hub in the Arabian Sea, Gwadar is now witnessing the slow erosion of its rich historical and cultural heritage. Known for its natural harbor and vibrant free port status under Omani rule, the city’s narrow streets and centuries-old market structures are now at risk of disappearing without urgent preservation efforts. A Bustling Port Turned Historic Relic Before modern transportation and wide highways, Gwadar thrived with the movement of camels, mules, and horses carrying goods through its narrow alleyways. The city’s central market, although compact, played a major role in regional trade and mirrored the historic bazaars of Muscat and Zanzibar. During its time as a free port, Gwadar’s bazaar offered an array of international goods—fabrics, groceries, wood, fishing gear, and even traditional Balochi medicine. This commercial activity made the port city a strategic trading location under the Sultanate of Oman. Community Contributions and Historic Forts Minority communities such as Ismaili Khoja merchants and Hindu traders played a vital role in Gwadar’s economic growth during the Omani era. These communities were housed in designated areas that included two significant forts. One fort, built from mud, has since collapsed due to environmental wear and lack of upkeep. The second, a stone-and-lime structure constructed in the 18th century, still partially stands, though in a deteriorated state due to neglect. No Archaeological Oversight Gwadar currently lacks a formal archaeology department, leading to the unchecked decay of numerous heritage sites. The once-bustling Shahi Bazaar, filled with broken storefronts and damaged buildings, reflects a city losing touch with its roots. Cultural experts and local historians express concern that without proper documentation and conservation, these structures may soon be lost forever. Hope Through Restoration In a positive development, the Gwadar Development Authority (GDA) has initiated preservation work on selected sites from the Omani era. Restoration projects include the historic post office, the Char Padago (Four-Pillar monument), and the fort structure inside Jamaat Khana’s boundary. According to officials, these efforts aim to protect Gwadar’s cultural identity and promote tourism. Properly preserved, these structures could become key attractions that celebrate the city’s past while contributing to its future. Preserving What Remains Urban planners and conservationists agree that restoring these historic assets could help revive Gwadar’s lost glory. However, if the current pace of neglect continues, much of the city’s unique architectural and historical character may vanish entirely. For Gwadar to reclaim its status as a cultural and trade landmark, urgent and sustained action is needed. Without it, the historic bazaar and its heritage may soon exist only in the pages of history. Published in Gwadar Press Club News Desk.

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Overfishing and Climate - Murad Salik - Phot Ayaz Iqbal

How Overfishing and Climate Change Are Threatening Marine Life

How Overfishing and Climate Change Are Disrupting Ocean Life Article by- M.B. Salik, Gwadar, Translation- Ayaz Iqbal Nature has gifted Earth as a home for humankind, filled with countless resources. Among these are the oceans and rivers, vast habitats where aquatic species thrive in a delicate balance with water temperature and marine ecosystems. Fish and other marine life live among seaweed, coral reefs, mangroves, and deep-sea zones, adapting to various temperature zones. These environments not only offer shelter but are essential breeding and nursery grounds for aquatic species. Over 50% of the global population relies on marine life as a major food source. However, human greed has led to unsustainable fishing practices. Many people use harmful and untraditional fishing equipment to maximize profits, unaware that they are destroying their own livelihoods. Excessive fishing, especially with toxic or illegal gear, is not only depleting fish stocks but also damaging the marine ecosystem. Additionally, climate change is altering ocean temperatures, which affects the natural distribution and behavior of fish. These changes, combined with overexploitation, are accelerating the decline of many fish species. The situation is worsened by pollution from industries, homes, hotels, and sewage systems. Toxic waste from these sources is mixing with seawater, destroying once-clear marine habitats. Large oil-carrying ships also release harmful chemicals into the ocean, further contaminating the ecosystem. As a result, many fish species have either vanished or are on the brink of extinction. This isn’t just an environmental tragedy, it’s a serious threat to food security for millions of people. There’s a saying that the sea is to a fisherman what land is to a farmer. But when harmful fishing nets are used recklessly, both the livelihood of fishermen and the health of the ocean are at risk. These destructive practices have led to job losses, environmental degradation, and the collapse of sustainable fish populations. Yet, there’s still time to act. We must reflect on our actions and understand the effects of climate change, overfishing, and toxic gear. The decline of fish populations, the loss of biodiversity, and growing threats to food security call for a shift toward sustainable and traditional fishing methods. We must also protect our marine environment by keeping it clean and respecting nature’s balance. Disturbing this balance could lead to complex challenges not just for aquatic life, but for humans as well. Published in Gwadar Press Club.

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CPEC and Gwadar Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Ahead -Noor Mohsin - Portrait photo

CPEC and Gwadar: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Ahead

CPEC and Gwadar: A Window of Opportunity or Missed Potential? By Noor Mohsin Over the past few years, countless statements, announcements, and analyses have been made about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). While China remains diplomatically quiet, people across Pakistan, especially in Gwadar are filled with both hope and concern. This is understandable: Gwadar is both the starting and ending point of the economic corridor. Yet, despite its strategic importance, it still faces severe underdevelopment. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, Gwadar’s residents ironically struggle for access to clean drinking water. They receive contaminated water once every 20–25 days, and that too for just an hour through a half-inch pipe. The old neighborhoods are crumbling, and there’s no fully functional hospital to treat patients adequately. There’s no proper sewage system, and despite billions spent, Gwadar still lacks a single functioning industry to create jobs. Unemployment and a lack of basic facilities persist. CPEC and Gwadar have become synonymous, mentioned together so frequently that separating them feels impossible. But they are, in reality, two separate entities. Each has its own needs and priorities, and both deserve distinct, fair assessments. Mega projects like CPEC often bring unintended consequences. Before its arrival, crimes like theft, extortion, gun culture, and violence were not common in Gwadar. There was no prevailing atmosphere of fear. Fishermen and business owners lived with a sense of peace. The deep-sea port, now a symbol of development, was once a thriving fishing ground given up by locals in good faith with the belief that CPEC would transform their future. But instead, they received unemployment and hardship in return. I attended a program hosted by the Ministry of Planning and Development in collaboration with the Government of Balochistan, titled “CPEC: Gwadar, Balochistan, and Pakistan.” Public representatives, intellectuals, and journalists gathered to discuss the significance and implications of CPEC. During this event, a senior official from China Overseas Port Holding Company claimed that all major civic issues in Gwadar, water, electricity, roads, sewerage, education, and healthcare could be resolved within six months. However, they also said they were not being given a free hand to address them. This raises the question: Who is preventing the resolution of Gwadar’s problems? CPEC is a historic opportunity. Globally, it emerged from shifting alliances following 9/11, and regionally, from Pakistan’s geopolitical location and its growing distance from the U.S. On the national level, it is Gwadar in the south and Gilgit in the north that anchor its strategic depth. CPEC allows China to strengthen its economy, develop its western provinces, and simplify the import-export process through reduced costs and access to Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. For Pakistan, CPEC brings not just infrastructure but political capital. The current government, for example, leveraged CPEC to show progress especially in addressing the energy crisis, at least temporarily, to influence elections. For Balochistan and especially Gwadar, CPEC holds countless opportunities in trade, investment, employment, and education. But those benefits can only be realized if the government ensures transparency, provides technical and educational institutions, and fulfills its responsibilities. The core question is: Are the local people ready and empowered to benefit from these opportunities? The most valuable asset for national progress is human capital. Natural resources can’t yield progress without educated, skilled individuals to utilize them. Unfortunately, Balochistan remains Pakistan’s most underdeveloped province in terms of human resource development. Our priorities as a province, or even as a nation, remain unclear. Education and training are key—but Balochistan lags behind in both. To truly benefit from CPEC, the government needs smart planning; political leaders must demonstrate long-term thinking and resolve; and the public must stay united, build mutual tolerance, and focus on collective progress. Preparing the youth for the future is not just a hope, it is a national movement that must begin in the hearts of our leaders and policymakers. Slogans and speeches won’t safeguard our future, only knowledge and skills will. The responsibility lies not just with the government but also with the youth themselves. They must stop relying on others and begin investing in their education and capabilities. Opportunities will come—but only those who are prepared will benefit from them. Editor’s Note:This article was originally published in 2017 in Tajziyat, a respected journal based in Islamabad. It has been republished here for wider public interest and reference.

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Jameel Qasim- Photo by Ayaz Iqbal

Travel on Coastal Highway Halts Amid “Diesel Extortion” Crisis

Passengers  Trapped  Between  Diesel  Demands and Helplessness   Gwadar: Travelers on the Coastal Highway, especially those from Gwadar and Makran, are facing severe hardship. While the high cost of food and accommodation in Karachi already burdens them, a growing conflict between the Pakistan Coast Guard and private coach operators has made the situation worse. Coach owners claim they are being forced to pay what they call a “diesel extortion fee” of 70 liters per checkpoint along the highway. If they refuse, they risk being stopped from continuing their journey. This has nearly paralyzed long-distance transport services, leaving passengers to suffer. Coast Guard’s Counterclaim In response, the Pakistan Coast Guard argues that many coaches are transporting far less passengers than expected and are instead used to illegally transport fuel, which they claim is the real reason behind stricter checks. Stranded Without Support in Karachi As a result of this standoff, hundreds of passengers from Gwadar and Makran have been left stranded in Karachi. Many are now sleeping on sidewalks, at relatives’ homes, or in unsafe areas with no financial support. Most can’t afford hotel rooms, and their limited money has already been spent on food. Women, children, and elderly people are especially vulnerable, yet there has been no help from authorities. Repeated Pleas to Leaders Ignored Passengers have made urgent appeals to high-level officials, including: MNA Haji Malik Shah Gurgij, MPA Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch, MNA Phaleen Baloch, Former CM Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch, Senator Jan Muhammad Buledi, Provincial Ministers Mir Zahoor Buledi, Barkat Rind, Mir Asghar Rind, Meena Majid, Gwadar District Council Chairman Syed Miyar Jan Noori Despite multiple calls for action, no official response has been received so far. Political Silence Raises Questions Many expected MNA Haji Malik Shah Gurgij to intervene by contacting the Sindh government and arranging relief for his constituency. Unfortunately, he has not responded. Critics say he seems disconnected from the area and unfamiliar with local issues. Former CM Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch and other party members are often seen in political meetings in Islamabad, Lahore, and Quetta, but show little urgency in solving this crisis. Similarly, MPA Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch is known for his concern over livestock rather than human suffering. Even District Chairman Miyar Jan Noori has remained silent, appearing to believe his responsibility ends at a single ward in Pasni. Public Reaction and a Ray of Hope The public in Gwadar has reacted strongly, warning that if no action is taken, this crisis could deepen and lead to a complete loss of trust in state institutions. In a rare act of kindness, a local public bus service in Karachi transported a group of stranded passengers to Gwadar free of charge, without demanding any diesel fees. This compassionate move stands in stark contrast to the inaction of larger coach companies. Final Questions: Who Will Take Responsibility? This situation raises serious questions: Will the Coast Guard stay within its legal limits? Will coach owners prioritize people over profit? Most importantly, will the state step in to help these abandoned citizens? These are not just questions—they reflect the painful reality faced today by hundreds in Gwadar and Makran. The real issue is whether this “diesel drama” will end, and if so, when and how? سفر مسافر ءِ کردار ءَ یات کنت دنیا برے ترا ءُ برے مارا یات کنت دنیا By: Jameel Qasim – Gwadar

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