This discussion paper assesses the socio-economic and environmental hazards that may occur due to the proposed diversion of Shatung river, situated at Deosai plains of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. A plan to divert Shatung river into Satpara Dam already exists; the plan is to increase the latter’s power generation capacity and to satisfy the increasing domestic, industrial and public water needs of Skardu Town and the adjacent villages during the low flow/winter season. However, no Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been conducted so far. Only the locally-active environmental protection bodies have put up some resistance against this plan arguing that the diversion would primarily violate the Gilgit-Baltistan Wildlife Protection, Preservation and Management Act, 1975. During the investigation for this discussion paper, it was learnt that the diversion may result in serious damages to the ecology of the Deosai National Park (DNP) and its existing flora and fauna fed by Shatung river. Moreover, the requirements of Satpara Dam and expected outcomes of the diversion might not be achieved when the river water level decreases in winter season. If the diversion takes place, it would have serious implications for the fragile alpine ecosystem of Deosai plateau, and its biodiversity.
What impact does the 18th Constitutional Amendment have on Renewable Energy and sustainability in Pakistan? This study explores the institutional setup around renewable energy at both the provincial and the federal levels and analyses the mandate of the institutional arrangements. It also highlights the challenges to renewable energy growth that have emerged after the 18th amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan.
This research is conducted with collaboration of a team of researchers who are expert in the field of environment and laboratory sciences, and psychology with a high degree of expertise. This is the first organized study in Afghanistan that has tried to examine environmental pollution and its impacts on public health. It also provides a platform for environmental advocacy activities in Afghanistan. It is hoped that this research will be able to pave the way for activities that can improve the mental and physical health of Afghan society.
This study analyses the role of customary laws for sustainable livelihoods and development in Gilgit-Baltistan. Taking cue from views of local communities, the study takes stock of interplay of customary laws with local communities, who have over the centuries evolved and internalized these laws to make them part and parcel of their culture. Hence, the paper looks at the customary laws as a part of life of local communities. However, the coterminous existence of customary laws along with modern laws has given birth to a complicated situation where the local communities’ rights get lost in limbo.
