Gwadar | ReNews Pakistan Gwadar is set to undergo a significant transformation under the second phase of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor, with plans to develop the city into a Smart Port City by 2026, according to Federal Minister for Planning Development and Reforms Ahsan Iqbal. The initiative aims to integrate modern urban planning, coastal economic development, and infrastructure expansion, with a clear focus on enhancing the value, usability, and sustainability of land and property in Gwadar. The development framework envisions the provision of essential urban services including clean water supply, reliable electricity, modern healthcare, and education facilities. These measures are intended to ensure that residential and commercial zones are well serviced and capable of supporting long term urban growth. The projects form part of a comprehensive urban planning strategy that positions Gwadar as a southern economic hub, driven by fisheries, marine services, logistics, ship repair activities, and environmentally responsible tourism. Several key infrastructure projects are already operational or nearing completion. These include the Gwadar Port Desalination Plant, which supplies fresh water to the city, and the Pakistan China Friendship Hospital, which offers modern healthcare facilities aligned with international standards. Together, these developments are expected to strengthen the attractiveness of urban land, encourage real estate investment, and support the creation of planned residential and commercial districts. Human capital development is also a central component of the transformation strategy. The former sub campus of Turbat University has been upgraded to the University of Gwadar, expanding access to higher education for the local population and contributing to urban growth through the development of a skilled workforce. Minister Iqbal emphasised that Gwadar’s transformation is designed to be inclusive, with active participation from local fishermen, youth, and women. This approach seeks to ensure that urban expansion and coastal development generate direct benefits for the local community. These initiatives are expected to bring greater stability to property markets, improve land use planning, and facilitate the emergence of structured residential and commercial areas across the city. Overall, Gwadar’s development under CPEC Phase II reflects a strategic alignment of urban planning, land development, and coastal infrastructure investment, positioning the city as a modern economic centre while steadily increasing the long term value and resilience of its land and property assets.