Baglihar project accelerating erosion in IHK region

Iftikhar gilani

NEW DELHI: The 450-megawatt Baglihar hydroelectric project is becoming a reason for concern in the Doda region of Indian-held Kashmir (IHK), as rising water in Chenab River is seeping under the hills, turning soil into loose ground. After another lorry plunged into a 500-foot deep gorge o Monday in southern Doda near Assar, locals are anticipating a bigger tragedy.




Locals fear plans to expand the project to 900megawatts could spell disaster for the region, as it might accelerate erosion along the 60-kilometre Batote-Doda stretch - the only road connecting the region with the world. The Power Development Corporation (PDC), the owner of the project, is reported to have sanctioned Rs 150 million in 2004 for timely repairs of the road. A separate construction division, the Catchment Area Treatment Division, was also formed to handle an increase in water levels because of the Baghlihar Project and prevent erosion.