Thousands Protesters in Diamer Over Unpaid Compensation for Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project


 

Thousands of residents from 43 villages in the Diamer district have launched a large-scale protest under the movement titled “Haqooq Do, Dam Banao Tehreek” (Give Rights, Build the Dam Movement). Their primary demand is the long-overdue compensation for lands acquired for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam.

Background: Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project

The Diamer-Bhasha Dam, a mega infrastructure project in Pakistan, is expected to generate 4,800 MW of electricity. On May 13, 2020, the Pakistani government signed a Rs. 442 billion contract with a joint venture of China Power and Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) to construct the dam. While the project promises economic benefits, it has also displaced thousands of local residents who are now seeking compensation.

Protest and Demands

Massive Gathering at Chilas Airport

On February 16, affected locals, religious leaders, youth groups, and regional committees gathered at Chilas Airport to demand their rightful compensation. Protesters took an oath on the Holy Quran, vowing to continue their struggle until their demands are fulfilled.

Key Demands of the Protesters

The protestors emphasized that they sacrificed their land, homes, and ancestral graves for the dam’s construction. They claim that despite assurances given in a 2010 agreement, neither WAPDA nor the government has taken meaningful steps to resolve their grievances. Their demands include:

  • Immediate compensation for submerged lands based on the 2015 survey.
  • Financial relief for 2,900 displaced families under the Missing Chulha scheme.
  • Final settlement for 18,000 acres of acquired land.

According to the protesters, over 80,000 people have been affected, with many still awaiting rightful compensation.

Government and WAPDA’s Response

G-B Minister Criticizes WAPDA

G-B Minister Engineer Anwar criticized WAPDA, stressing that compensation must be provided before any mega project is initiated. He praised the unity of the Diamer community, asserting that their determination would ensure their rights are honored.

WAPDA Acknowledges Delays

WAPDA officials admitted to delays, citing resettlement issues and incomplete land acquisition for model villages. Retired Brigadier Shoaib Taqi, WAPDA’s general manager for land acquisition, revealed that:

  • Over 4,000 households were compensated under the Chula Scheme, amounting to Rs. 13 billion.
  • The last tranche of compensation was disbursed in 2015.
  • Unresolved claims have risen to 13,000 Chulas, requiring an additional Rs. 9.1 billion, which awaits approval under a revised PC-1.

Charter of Demands & Deadline for Authorities

The Haqooq Do, Dam Banao Tehreek has presented a 31-point Charter of Demands, highlighting crucial concerns of the affected communities from both Diamer Bhasha and Dasu Dams. The movement has issued a 48-hour ultimatum for authorities to address their concerns. Failure to meet their demands will lead to further protests, with a major demonstration planned on February 16 at Siddique Akbar Chowk, Chilas.



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