Chilas, Gilgit Baltistan: In a powerful show of unity, residents of Goner Farm, Goharabad, Thor, and surrounding areas observed a complete shutter-down strike today under the banner of the “Give Us Our Rights, Build the Dams”movement. The protest, organized by the local Awaami Tehreek (People’s Movement), saw widespread participation as people took to the streets to demand their rights and call out the government and WAPDA (Water and Power Development Authority) for neglecting their concerns.
Protesters gathered in large numbers in Chilas, with people from various areas arriving in convoys to join a major rally in the city. The demonstration was marked by the chanting of slogans such as “WAPDA tyranny unacceptable, Build the Dams, Give us our rights”. The participants voiced strong opposition to the government’s failure to address their demands, particularly the need for the construction of dams in the region.
The protesters argued that the basic rights of the affected communities cannot be ignored, especially when it comes to the construction of dams that will impact their lands and livelihoods. They made it clear that while they support the development of infrastructure, it should not come at the cost of their fundamental rights.
“We have been deprived of our rightful share in the benefits that these dams should bring. The authorities must not overlook our basic rights. If they continue to ignore us, we will escalate our protests,” warned one of the protest leaders.
The residents of the affected areas have long been advocating for better compensation and infrastructure development in return for the land submerged by the dams. With the ongoing protests, the community is demanding that the government and WAPDA immediately address these issues and ensure fair treatment for the people of the region.
The rally and the ongoing strike serve as a strong reminder to the authorities that the people will not back down until their demands are met. Protesters have made it clear that if their concerns are not addressed soon, they will intensify their actions in the coming days.
This movement continues to gain traction as the demand for dam construction and the protection of local rights grows louder across the region.