Artisanal Small-Scale Mining for sustainable livelihood in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Abstract

This research contains a significant new knowledge perspective on contextualizing sustainable development with Artisanal Small-Scale Mining (ASM). The study has explored the impacts of ASM on livelihood of both high- and low-income households by self-administering 150 questionnaires at household level in the Sumayar valley, Gilgit-Baltistan. The dynamic relationship between the variables was analysed through OLS regression. The study was backed through Sustainable Livelihood Framework and Community Driven Development approach. The study's findings indicated that ASM positively impacts sustainable livelihood, where high-income households were found more sustainable in terms of their livelihoods' enhancement than low-income households. Alarmingly, 85% of the local community disregard the existent adverse impacts of mining on the natural environment, including air pollution. The research study points towards evolving and embracing the local stakeholders for sustained development of the area and generating more revenue for the government.