Special CorrespondentMonday, 18 February
Chilas, Gilgit-Baltistan: Thousands of protesters from communities affected by the Diamer Bhasha Dam project staged a massive sit-in on the Karakoram Highway on Sunday, issuing a 24-hour ultimatum to authorities to address their demands or face escalated actions. The demonstration, organized under the banner of the “Haq Do Dam Banao” (Give Rights, Build the Dam) movement, marks a boiling point in years of grievances over land compensation, employment rights, and alleged corruption tied to the mega hydropower project.
Led by religious scholar Moulana Hazratullah, over 10,000 protesters—including tribal leaders, youth groups, clerics, and politicians—marched through Chilas, chanting slogans against the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and local administration. The crowd later blocked traffic at Babusar Pass, a critical segment of the Karakoram Highway, demanding immediate action on a 31-point charter of demands.
Key Demands and Tribal Solidarity
Moulana Hazratullah outlined three core grievances:
- Halt construction on the dam until demands are met.
- Replace non-local WAPDA employees with residents from Diamer.
- Permanent jobs and notifications for local daily-wage workers currently employed at the dam site.
Tribal leaders amplified these calls, with Thak Tribe chief Ziaullah Thakvi accusing WAPDA of seizing 18,000 acres of land without compensation. “Diamer’s land belongs to its people. WAPDA must pay for what it took,” he declared. Batokhel Tribe President Raj Muhammad warned, “The people are awake now. This movement is at a decisive turning point.”
Corruption allegations also took center stage. Lawyer Wali Advocate demanded the suspension of officials involved in embezzling funds from the “Chulha Package”—a resettlement initiative meant to provide displaced families with household essentials. “If no corruption occurred, distribute the stoves immediately,” he challenged.
Political Backing and Ultimatum
Gilgit-Baltistan’s Agriculture Minister Engineer Muhammad Anwar and Forests Advisor Haji Shah Baig expressed solidarity with protesters, urging WAPDA to “correct its priorities” and address public demands. Meanwhile, Moulana Hazratullah warned of “Plan B”—a cryptic but severe escalation—if the government fails to act within 24 hours.
United Front Amid Tensions
Protesters showcased rare unity, with rival tribes postponing internal disputes to focus on the movement. Shopkeepers shuttered businesses in solidarity, while participants swore an oath on the Quran to uphold their resolve. “We are not against the dam, but we will fight for our rights,” emphasized speakers, referencing the 31-point charter that includes calls for fair land compensation and transparency in hiring.
Context and Implications
The Diamer Bhasha Dam, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s energy strategy, has long been mired in disputes over displacement and resource allocation. Sunday’s protest underscores deepening mistrust between local communities and state institutions. With the Karakoram Highway—a vital trade artery to China—now partially blocked, authorities face mounting pressure to negotiate.
Kashmir Independent News will monitor developments as the ultimatum deadline approaches.
Note for International Readers:
- WAPDA: Water and Power Development Authority, a Pakistani government agency responsible for water and power projects in Gilgit Baltistan.
- Chulha Package: A resettlement initiative providing households with essentials like stoves (chulha), allegedly marred by corruption.
- Karakoram Highway: A 1,300 km road linking Gilgiti Baltistan-Pakistan to China, crucial for regional trade and connectivity.