CPEC updates at Gwadar

[ghazi52]

Early warning meteorological system operational at Gwadar Port​

Gwadar Pro
Aug 7, 2024

GWADAR - Gwadar Environment Department (GED) operationalized an early warning meteorological system at Gwadar Port in collaboration with China Meteorological Administration (CMA) on August 4th to help analyse and identify potential weather- and climate-related risks and hazards in Gwadar.

“It aims at enabling early actions to save and protect lives, livelihoods and assets of people at risk,” GED official told Gwadar Pro. “In 2022, Balochistan and Gwadar suffered severe flooding, resulting in significant damage to lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods of the affected population. The estimated damage to Balochistan Province amounted to $1.625 billion,” he said.

With the early warning system, Gwadar is better positioned to deal with frequent, extreme, and unpredictable climate-related hazards.

The early warning system is made up of four elements: disaster risk knowledge, detection, monitoring, analysis, and forecasting, warning dissemination and communication, and preparedness and response capabilities. In April, China Meteorological Administration (CMA) handed over equipment to Pakistan, which included a mobile vertical observation system, a Beidou Navigation sounding station and three automatic weather stations (AWS) including two backups and a large screen.

Last year, meteorological officers and experts from China and Pakistan held talks in Beijing on deepening cooperation in meteorological science and technology. Both sides reviewed the cooperation in the field of meteorological science and technology, and consulted on such topics as the early warning supporting system, operational capacity building, and training.

 

[ghazi52]

Gwadar North Free Zone energized with 10 MW power supply​

Gwadar Pro
Aug 15, 2024

GWADAR - In a major development, Gwadar North Free Zone has been energized with 10 MW electricity after connecting the national grid system on August 15. In the second phase 5 MW power supply will be provided to Gwadar North Free Zone and Gwadar Port.

Gwadar Port Authority as the executing agency completed the entire work in one year. Quetta Electric Power Supply Company (QEPSC) and China Overseas Ports Holding Company (COPHC) conducted the feasibility studies. Sigma, a Karachi based company constructed the distribution network in the Gwadar North Free Zone.

Almost 300 meters long underground power cables have been laid down from Deep Sea Port grid station with a sub-station recently constructed at the entrance of North Free Zone. The sub-station has the control panels, HT room and cabinets to manage supply of electricity to the factories in the zone.

From the sub-station a 5 km long 132 KV distribution line carrying two feeders of 5 MW each were laid. On reaching the factories’ premises inside North Free Zone where companies including Han Geng and Agven are operating, step-down transformers have been installed for continual electricity supply as per their demands.

Now Gwadar North Free Zone has been linked to Gwadar Port’s sole grid station with three sources. “One source is national grid station of Quetta. The second source is Gabd-Remdan of Iran border. The third source is Nag-Besima section of another Iran Border.”

The Deep-Sea Port’s sole Grid Station was established in 2019 exclusively for Gwadar Port and Free Zone through three feeders. Since inadequate power was available at the disposal of the QEPSC, the grid station had to rely on diesel generators for production of thermal power using expensive fossil fuel at high cost in the past.

After Gwadar North Free Zone is energized, 8.5 MW Diesel Generator has been switched off, saving millions of rupees. COPHC official said that as matter of fact electricity which was being produced through 8.5 MW diesel generator cost around Rs90 per unit. However, after availability of 10 MW power in Gwadar North Free Zone, electricity cost will be around Rs.55 per unit.

“It means investors and factory owners will enjoy the saving of around Rs35 per unit. This will directly impact financial leverage and production growth not only for current enterprises but also for potential investors,” COPHC official said.

 

[ghazi52]

 

[ghazi52]

Turkmenistan is the first Central Asian country to reach Gwadar port.
Turkmenistan, China will become the first Central Asian country to access Gwadar Port under Pakistan Economic Corridor. A committee has been formed to review the agreement between Gwadar Port and Turkman Bashi Port.

 

[HaiderAfan]

Pakistan has compiled an extensive list of over 70 collaborative projects for the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which will be presented to the Chinese Prime Minister during his upcoming visit next month. This ambitious plan aims to accelerate the development of CPEC and unlock new opportunities for economic growth and regional integration.

Key Highlights of CPEC Phase II​

• Focus on Industrial Cooperation: The second phase will prioritize the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and industrial parks, attracting foreign direct investment and promoting technology transfer. Several SEZs are already under construction, including Rashakai, Allama Iqbal Industrial City, and Dhabeji.
• Agricultural Modernization: Agriculture is a key focus area, with plans for joint research centers, demonstration projects, and the introduction of advanced farming techniques. This collaboration aims to boost agricultural productivity and food security in Pakistan.
• Social Development: CPEC Phase II emphasizes social development, with projects in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. These initiatives include the establishment of vocational training institutes, the provision of medical equipment, and the construction of a desalination plant in Gwadar.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: The plan includes the upgrade of Pakistan Railways' Main Line-I (ML-1), which will significantly enhance the country's rail network and connectivity. The Karakorum Highway will also undergo realignment to improve access to the Gwadar Port.
• Gwadar Development: The development of Gwadar Port and the surrounding city remains a priority, with plans for a smart port city master plan and the expansion of the port's capacity. The second phase aims to transform Gwadar into a sustainable and livable city.

Significance of CPEC Phase II​

The second phase of CPEC represents a crucial step in strengthening the economic partnership between Pakistan and China. By diversifying into new sectors and attracting international investment, CPEC has the potential to drive sustainable development, create jobs, and improve the lives of millions of Pakistanis.Moreover, CPEC's success could have broader implications for regional connectivity and cooperation. As a key component of China's Belt and Road Initiative, CPEC has the ability to serve as a catalyst for economic integration in South Asia and beyond.

Challenges and Way Forward​

While the potential of CPEC Phase II is immense, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. These include security concerns, bureaucratic hurdles, and the need for greater transparency and local participation in project implementation.To ensure the success of CPEC Phase II, it is crucial for Pakistan and China to work closely with local communities, address their concerns, and ensure that the benefits of development are equitably distributed. Additionally, efforts should be made to attract investment from third-party countries and international financial institutions to diversify the funding sources and promote regional cooperation.

Conclusion​

The second phase of CPEC represents a significant opportunity for Pakistan to accelerate its economic transformation and improve the lives of its citizens. By focusing on industrial cooperation, agricultural modernization, and social development, CPEC Phase II has the potential to create a more prosperous and equitable future for Pakistan. As the country prepares to present its ambitious project list to the Chinese Prime Minister, it is essential that both countries remain committed to the success of this transformative initiative.

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