Media Advocacy on Health Hazards of CPEC's Coal Power Project: The Sustainable Development Goal#3 is under threat

Abstract

In the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations members committed to improving all individuals' well-being and prioritizing health as a key development aspect.  However, the proposed construction of a 300MW coal power plant at Gwadar, a crucial location in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), raises concerns about its impact on human lives and the environment.  This project could hinder Pakistan's progress in achieving Sustainable Development Goal #3.  Although the power plant aims to address Pakistan's energy scarcity, debates highlight the potential adverse effects on human health and climate due to carbon emissions from coal.  This study explores how the media contributes to raising awareness of the health risks associated with the CPEC.  It suggests that media coverage may employ diversionary framing by emphasizing the economic benefits of the CPEC while diverting attention from the health consequences for the general population.