A Tale of Two Punjabs and CPEC

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a multi-dimensional development project that offers a unique opportunity to Pakistan for equitable and sustainable development. This study investigates the potential of selected districts of Punjab alongside CPEC routes, based on six social and economic indicators to assess whether these districts are on an equal footing to capitalize upon such a mega-investment project. Results indicate wide disparities between the selected districts in terms of infrastructure and human capital, which are not captured by conventional indices of development. While developed districts can provide the necessary kick-start to CPEC. For the second phase of CPEC, the Punjab government must devise tailormade policies to suit the resource endowments of less developed districts.