AsSalam O Alaikum,
Brothers, our so called politicians have had a field day discussing Kalabagh to the hilt and have repeatedly used it as a political ploy. There are some issues regarding kalabagh however which need to be discusssed.
Firstly, there is the feeling in NWFP that the dam is being built to facilitate growth and benefit for the people of Punjab and the brunt of the sacrifices will be borne by the people of NWFP. This is entirely wrong and this seed of discord should be rooted out.
Secondly, the issue of mass migration for a lot of people whose villages would be flooded and therefore compensation to them(both financial and emotional).
Thirdly, there is the issue of royalty for NWFP, which at the end of the day may be the most complicated issue, as I have read that there have been differences over it.
Fourthly, there have been issues regarding the position of the Dam and the overall benefit vs cost issue. I gather there have been reports from UN (if I remember correctly) which suggest that there may be serious problems building the Dam at its proposed site.
Fifth, the problem and perception in Sindh that reduction in the down flow would seriously affect the water supply to the province and affect the land that is presently cultivated.
Lastly there is the inherent problem with all dams of rising levels of silt with eventual reduction in energy production and associated waterlogging.
The problem with all things in Pakistan is that everything is shrouded in such mystery that no one ever knows what the true state of affairs is. If we had open enquiry and all concerns were answered, I think people would be able to take a ogical decision rather than a blind leap of conviction.The fact remains ,we need water and energyfor our growing economy.We also need to sort out why earlier dams have not been producing as much energy as before and what we can do to restore their productivity(perhaps dredge the bed, ove raise the level of the reservoire etc.). Please feel free to correct any of the points I have raised.
WaSalam
Araz