Natural Resources and Livelihood Diversification: A Case Study of Chromite Extraction in Heroshah-Malakand, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65761/jssp.2026.97Keywords:
Natural resource management · Livelihood diversification · Chromite · Property rights · Resource curse · Community-based natural resource management · PakistanAbstract
Background: Natural resources can promote rural development and livelihood diversification when managed through inclusive institutions. However, unequal governance often concentrates benefits among a few actors, leaving resource-rich communities economically marginalized. Chromite mining in Heroshah, District Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan, represents a localized resource-curse scenario where substantial mineral wealth has generated limited benefits for local residents.
Objective: To assess the impact of chromite extraction on livelihood diversification, income generation, resource distribution, and local livelihoods in Heroshah-Malakand.
Methods: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted among 150 randomly selected households in Union Council Heroshah. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.
Results: Annual chromite production was estimated at approximately 400 tonnes, valued at PKR 11.09 million (≈ USD 90,000). However, only about PKR 148,500 (1.3%) reached local households, while most revenues remained with two private contractors. Most households earned PKR 20,000–30,000 monthly and depended on agriculture, trade, and public-sector employment rather than mining. Respondents reported land degradation, water contamination, and biodiversity loss.
Conclusion: Findings indicate an institutionally driven resource curse caused by exclusionary governance. Strengthening community rights, inclusive management, sustainable extraction practices, and local value-added processing could improve socioeconomic and environmental outcomes.
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