Abstract
The marble industry in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa plays a pivotal role in Pakistan’s mineral economy, accounting for approximately 78% of national marble production. This study assesses the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of marble processing activities in Pir Bala, located along Warsak Road in Peshawar. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining primary data from 70 structured questionnaires (50 local residents and 20 industry owners) with field observations and secondary data from scholarly literature and government reports.
The findings reveal a pronounced duality in industrial impacts. Economically, the sector has generated substantial employment opportunities, with 75.93% of workers originating from the local community and 93.33% of respondents reporting improved household economic conditions. However, 46.66% of residents indicated that environmental degradation has negatively affected their overall quality of life. Environmental assessment highlights significant pollution concerns: 73.33% of industrial waste is discharged directly into nearby rivers, 63.66% of respondents identified water pollution as the dominant environmental issue, and 66.66% reported respiratory illnesses as prevalent health problems. Noise pollution affects 26.66% of the area, with associated hearing impairments reported among residents and workers.
The study further identifies regulatory deficiencies, as 80% of respondents reported the absence of effective government monitoring. Although 85% of industrial units provide some form of personal protective equipment, occupational health risks remain substantial. Moreover, 60% of residents perceive that infrastructure and area development have declined despite industrial expansion. Overall, while 53.33% acknowledge economic benefits, 60% argue that these gains are undermined by environmental costs. The study recommends relocation of processing units to designated industrial zones, strict enforcement of environmental regulations, adoption of cleaner production technologies, strengthening of occupational safety frameworks, and formalization of labor practices to promote sustainable development in the marble sector.