GILGIT: In a bid to address the escalating tensions surrounding the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project, the Gilgit-Baltistan Apex Committee has announced the formation of two high-powered committees to engage in dialogue with protesters in Chilas. These groups will develop recommendations for a federal committee established by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address grievances related to the dam’s construction.
For the past ten days, demonstrators have braved harsh winter conditions, demanding the fulfillment of 31 key demands. Among these are a call for Gilgit-Baltistan to receive 80% of the dam’s royalties and 30% from the Dassu Dam, free electricity for the Diamer district, discounted electricity rates for the broader Gilgit-Baltistan region, and compensation for land acquired for the dam. Protesters are also seeking residential and commercial plots, improvements in education and health services, and employment opportunities for locals in the dam project.
The announcement came following a meeting presided over by Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, attended by senior civil and military officials. Discussions covered a broad range of issues, including regional security, public safety, educational reforms, and the safety of major roadways.
The committees are tasked with drafting proposals to present to the federal committee, which will then negotiate directly with the protesters. The apex committee has encouraged protesters to form their own representative body to facilitate discussions.
Protesters have warned that if negotiations do not progress, they will escalate their actions by marching towards the Diamer-Bhasha Dam site, potentially halting construction activities. Hazratullah, head of the Protest Movement Committee, indicated that such a march could commence if federal representatives fail to arrive in Chilas by Wednesday.
Adding political weight to the protest, Advocate Amjad Hussain, president of the local chapter of the Pakistan Peoples Party, assured demonstrators of his support and criticized the exclusion of locals from the economic benefits of the dam project. He threatened that PPP ministers would resign if demands are not met.
The protesters remain resolved, underscoring their demands’ legitimacy and urging those in authority to respond to their needs. In solidarity, the GB Awami Action Committee has announced plans to march from Gilgit to Chilas.
