WAPDA Pays Rs 677.7 Million to Harban Affectees

What happens when decades-old land ownership meets a mega national development project? In Upper Kohistan, that question is now turning into reality as compensation payments continue under one of Pakistan’s largest infrastructure initiatives.

Harban Affectees Receive Latest Compensation Tranche

The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has disbursed another Rs 677.7 million to the affectees of Harban in Upper Kohistan. The payments are part of ongoing land acquisition efforts for the Diamer Basha Dam Project, a key hydroelectric and water storage initiative on the Indus River.

The cheques were formally handed over through the Thor-Harban Grand Peace Jirga during a ceremony held at Bushi Das. Local elders, government officials, and project authorities attended the event, reflecting a coordinated effort between communities and institutions.

Land Acquisition Progress and Project Scope

Diamer Basha Dam is designed to enhance Pakistan’s water security, energy generation, and agricultural output. The compensation payments are linked to land acquired from affected communities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan.

Key Project and Compensation Breakdown

On-Ground Coordination Through Local Jirga

The Thor-Harban Grand Peace Jirga played a key role in resolving boundary disputes in 2022, allowing smoother compensation flows. From experience, such local mediation mechanisms often help avoid delays in large-scale infrastructure projects where land rights are sensitive.

One common challenge in development projects is ensuring fair valuation of land while maintaining trust between authorities and residents. In many cases, delays in compensation can create financial pressure for families who depend on agricultural land as their primary source of income.

Impact on Communities and Development Balance

For many families in Harban, land is not just an asset but a livelihood. Losing it for development projects often means adjusting to new income sources. A relatable example is a farmer shifting from seasonal crop income to a lump-sum compensation model, which requires careful financial planning to sustain long-term needs.

Looking Ahead

As Diamer Basha Dam moves closer to completion, more compensation phases are expected to continue. The project remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s long-term strategy for energy production and water storage. The balance between infrastructure growth and community welfare will remain central in the coming years.