Hunza Leaders Oppose Privatization of Power Projects to Multinational Corporation
Leaders of the Awami Workers Party in Hunza, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, have expressed concern over the decision to privatize local power projects. This move involves transferring four power plants and all future electricity projects, along with water resources, to a multinational corporation.
Concerns Raised by Local Leaders
The Awami Workers Party Gilgit-Baltistan District Hunza chapter stated, “We believe this move jeopardizes the people of Hunza by potentially depriving them of their natural water resources, jobs, and land, and could entrap them in global corporate capitalism.”
The agreement, set for August 14, will transfer four public sector power plants in Hunza—Mayoon, Hassanabad, Khyber, and Misgar—to Industrial Promotion Services (IPS), a multinational company funded by the World Bank and EU under a public-private partnership.
Lack of Local Consent and Transparency
The party criticized the agreement, asserting, “We contend that this deal lacks legal legitimacy as Hunza remains a disputed and unsettled district. The local population, who are the rightful stewards of the land and water resources according to international agreements, were neither consulted nor gave their consent. Additionally, the elected representatives and political leadership of the area were also excluded from this process.”
Potential Negative Impacts
There are fears that privatization could lead to the exploitation of local resources and negatively impact the livelihoods of residents. The potential for increased utility costs and reduced access to essential services are major concerns for local communities.
Corruption and Mismanagement Concerns
The management and development of power projects in Gilgit-Baltistan have been marred by concerns about corruption, which has heightened local frustrations. There have been allegations of a lack of transparency in the decision-making processes for power projects. Reports suggest that funds allocated for power projects may be misappropriated or mismanaged, impacting the quality and efficiency of power infrastructure.
Doubts Revealed
Hunza -: Hunza is a beautiful valley located in the northern part of Pakistan, known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Privatization -: Privatization means transferring the control of a business or service from the government to private companies.
Multinational Corporation -: A multinational corporation is a large company that operates in many countries around the world.
Awami Workers Party -: The Awami Workers Party is a political group in Pakistan that focuses on workers’ rights and social justice.
Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan -: Gilgit-Baltistan is a region in the northern part of Pakistan, which is also claimed by India.
Power Projects -: Power projects are plans or constructions that generate electricity, like dams or power plants.
Local Consent -: Local consent means getting approval or agreement from the people who live in the area.
Transparency -: Transparency means being open and clear about actions and decisions, so everyone knows what is happening.
Resource Exploitation -: Resource exploitation means using natural resources like water or land in a way that can harm the environment or local people.
Utility Costs -: Utility costs are the expenses people pay for essential services like electricity and water.
Corruption -: Corruption is dishonest or illegal behavior by people in power, often involving bribery.
Mismanagement -: Mismanagement means handling something poorly, leading to problems or failures.
