GILGIT: Angry protesters affected by the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project have taken drastic action, sealing the offices of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in Chilas and Hasanat Company. They have also issued a warning to halt all construction work at the dam site starting today and threatened to stop WAPDA’s transportation operations.
The protesters, part of the “Rights of Two Dams Movement,” have been staging a sit-in for 19 days. Frustrated by the continuous delays in negotiations with the ministerial committee, they stormed the WAPDA office in Chilas under the leadership of Maulana Hazratullah, head of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam Committee. The protesters forced all employees out of the office and locked the main gate. They then marched to the Hasanat Company office, sealed it, and returned to the protest site chanting slogans.
The demonstrators demanded the immediate repatriation of all non-local employees and warned that if any non-local workers were found at WAPDA or other companies, the responsibility would lie with the employees and relevant authorities. They also raised strong slogans against WAPDA and the district administration.
Addressing the protesters, Maulana Hazratullah declared that WAPDA offices and construction company offices would remain closed until their 31-point demands were met. He warned that no work on the dam would be allowed without addressing their rights. “The patience of the people has run out. Anything can happen at any time. Until our demands are met, WAPDA offices will remain closed, and no vehicles will operate. If anyone attempts to resume work on the dam, WAPDA and the administration will be held responsible for any consequences,” he said.
He further stated that the WAPDA colony would also remain closed, and any movement or reopening of offices would lead to severe consequences. “This sea of people will not retreat until their rights are granted. The entire nation of Diamer, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kohistan is united. We will no longer tolerate oppression and injustice. How long will these oppressed people suffer under WAPDA’s cruel actions?”
The protesters demanded the immediate expulsion of all non-local employees from Grade 1 to 16 and the recruitment of local workers in the project. They also called for the regularization of temporary employees, issuance of notifications, and the immediate payment for 18,000 acres of land acquired for the project.
“The cup of patience has overflowed. The people have come out wearing shrouds and will not return home empty-handed,” Maulana Hazratullah added.
Background
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam, a major infrastructure project, has faced ongoing protests from local communities demanding fair compensation, employment opportunities, and the resolution of long-standing grievances. The latest escalation highlights the growing frustration among affected residents and their determination to secure their rights.
The situation remains tense as protesters vow to continue their agitation until their demands are met, raising concerns about the project’s timeline and the potential for further unrest.
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(This report is based on local sources and eyewitness accounts.)