THERE is a growing concern among the local residents regarding the hydropower projects being planned at three points along the Swat River between Kalam and Bahrain in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). In fact, having hydropower project tunnels means drying off the whole river. It will be flowing like a thin stream during winter as most of the water will be diverted into the tunnels.

The area between Kalam and Bahrain has many hotels, markets and other tourist spots, but once the said projects are commissioned, tourism in the area is bound to suffer. Besides, it will have detrimental repercussions for the environment and biodiversity.

Transforming the river into tunnels could be beneficial for the people living in the cities, but it will ruin the local economy as it is based on tourism and agriculture. The locals are mobilising a mass campaign against the project as they fear for their future.

The authorities concerned should have rendered an eye to the realities associated with the river before finalising the project. The river has a vital place with respect to Swat’s beauty, culture and history. It should never be turned into a small dirty stream.

As far as the hydropower projects are concerned, there should be a debate on the issue, and the local people must be included in such discussions. Any further step in this regard should be taken after taking into confidence the people of the area.

Usman Torwali
Swat

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2024