DEVELOPMENT IN NALTER: A CASE STUDY FROM 2000 TO 2014

DEVELOPMENT IN NALTER: A CASE STUDY FROM 2000 TO 2014

Author : Nizamuddin

Nizamuddin

Abstract

Nalter is a very beaufiful and full of natural resources valley inGilgit-Baltistan a newly provice of Pakistan. Its natural beautyattracted many tourists every year, its also attracted the Governmentof Pakistan and local government due to its water reserviours. Itscalled water bank of Gilgit due to engough potential to generate hyderopower. This paper focused the development of Nalter Since 2000 to 2014in Power Projects and International Ski Resort and impacts on the livesof people, their income, living standard and effects on land, plants,health issues due to blastings, environmental degradation due to a hugeflow of tourists and life security. This paper analysed, throughcitical eye, with a face to face interview with local peoples.

Key Words.. Nalter, Development, Hydero Power, Tourism, Ski Resort..

Introduction

Background of the study:Nalter is a scenic beautiful valley, the paradise on earth is known forits enthrall snow caped mountains, green meadows with alpine foresttrees, lovely lakes, trekking routes, cool and delightful climate andits tremendous beauty for which reason it is also described as heavenon Earth and the Switzerland of Pakistan. The valley has two parts,Lower Nalter (Khireeni Nalter in local language) is 34 KM distance fromGilgit City (the Capital of Gilgit-Baltistan) and Upper Nalter (AjeeniNalter) 40 KM from the Capital city.

Nalter has been remained summer working station of the Britishers. The

Britishers had come with their families from Gilgit Agency. Afterpartition of the subcontinent Gilgit-Baltistan got independence fromDogra Raj of Kashmir on 1st November 1947 and remained 15 days as anIndependent state then joined Pakistan unconditionally. Since the dayit became a tourist and ski resort. There are two splendid buildings ofrest houses in the middle of alpine forest is the memory VIPs of thattime. (1)

The people of Nalter valley are the most hospitable and peaceful amongthe masses of Gilgit-Baltistan. The original inhabitants of this Valleyare the people of Lower Nalter and they were the owners of upper andlower Nalter for centuries. The Gojar People came here as labourers,shepherds and land workers on the lands of Original Nalteries someHundred Years ago, living as minority tribe. The combine population ofthis beautiful valley is around 5 thousand masses. The valley of Nalteris famous for its potatoes around Pakistan because of its hugeproduction, taste and it is the only source of income of 70%Nalteries.

Nalter has two ski resort of Pakistan Air Force which are usually usefor winter National snow championship. The upper ski lift has upgradedand ready for international ski championship with 180-seater chairliftwhich the sole ski resort in Pakistan.

There are many beautiful and unique small valleys increase the overallbeauty of the valley. In Lower Nalter there are four beautiful vales,Jafer-abad, Momin-abad, Mehdi-abad and Roshan-abad. The largest vale isJafer-abad with an oval shape and Roshan-abad is smallest vale. Momin-abad and Mehdi-abad are the oldest vale of Nalter. The population ofLower Nalter is around 3 thousand.

The Upper Nalter is has many beautiful vales, the original names areNagara, Torbut, Ghomott, Jigott, Kachil, Khayott, Dalaan, Chimarsoh,Bishgiri, Sabil and Bungalah. The Most beautiful vale is Nagara withcovered of al-pine trees in three sides and a small hill in theSouthern side where houses were built. Khayott is largest in area andpopulation vise the total population of upper Nalter is around 2thousand. The person resides in the areas of Khayott, Nagara, Jigott,Ghomott and Torbut and other valleys are only for cultivation of

Potatoes with beautiful meadows covered by alpine forests.

Due to strain importance Pakistan Air Force has permanent base since1947 and Pakistan Army's FCNA Base. The two forces have grabbed themain land of Nalter Valley.

There are many beautiful natural lakes, The Lake of Trout Fish (ChimoBari original name in local language. Chimo means Fish and Bari meansLake) has a unique beauty with seven colours of water. The lake is fullof Trout fishes. It is some 3 KM far from Jigott (Upper Nalter).Another beautiful lake is the Lake of Blue Water (Chakar Bari) which isalso beautiful because of its blues color and it’s beside the Lake ofTrout Fish. The third lake is Bodolok Bari which is some distance fromTrout Fish Lake in the North side.(2)

The Valley of Nalter is unique because of its unique natural beauty andunique animals as well. Snow Leopard and Ibex are unique animals whichare rare in other parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and all over Pakistan. TheWild life Department is working for the security and betterment ofthese unique animals survival.

The river of Nalter started from the Lakes and ends up in Hunza Rivernear Nomal village after travel about 25 KM. The glacier of Shanni,Paloo and Ishkoman are the largest glaciers occupied 27% out of thetotal area of 27,206 hectares. (Kashif Sheikh, 2000) It is also calledthe water bank of Gilgit. For this reason Nalter has good potential toproduce electricity. The river of Nalter is life line for the villageof Nomal and Faizabad and line life for the economy of Gilgit districtas the largest electricity contributor. The prominent Hydro PowerProjects of Nalter are 18 MW Hydro power Project, Nalter-IV, 16 MWHydro power Project, Naltar-III and 14 MW Hydro power Project, Naltar-V. (3)

The 18 MW Hydro power Project, Nalter-IV was completed in 2007 andproviding electricity to the administrative city of Gilgit-Baltistanand the surroundings. The other two Projects are in under constructionprocess and very soon will be completed in order to overcome the energycrisis of Gilgit-Baltistan. The combine production will be 50 MWelectricity.

Nalter has not only the natural beauty, and best tourist spot in summer

and winter for the people of Pakistan and foreign but also greatpotential to generate income from tourism and largest contributor ofelectricity to capital of Gilgit-Baltistan to run the economy andadministration as well.

Study Objective:The objectives of this study is to discuss the Development in NalterSince 2000 till 2014 and also to discuss its impact on the lives of thelocal masses, their income, and living standard and over alldevelopment.

The research also discusses the hazards for the lives of people,health, animals, land and plants due to these projects.

It also discusses the tourism importance of the valley, flock oftourists and its impact on the environmental degradation of the valley.

The research also discusses the needs of new projects and otherProblems of Nalter.

Significance of the Study:The Nalter Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan is also known as ‘Heaven onEarth’, although this expression is often used by every other countrynowadays, but it is actually true in case of Gilgit-Baltistan. We needto explore these places, add value to them, improve theirinfrastructure and make the people aware of all these locations throughincreased promotional activities.

The federal government and the government of Gilgit-Balistan need tofocus on the tourism side. This sector has great potential of incomegeneration but it is ignored by the governments. It needs to bedeveloped so that people can see the beauty which God has creatednaturally.

Nalter is water bank because of the tremendous glaciers, it has thepotentials to generate electricity more than 100 MG, which may bringeconomic revolution in Gilgit-Baltistan and it is dire need of thetime.

Research Methodology:This research is both quantitative and qualitative in nature withinterviews.

The population of this study comprises of residents of Naltar area thatincludes students, local people, village representatives and projectworkers.A sample of 50 individuals was selected initially but due to thelimited time it interviewed only 10 individuals those include ofstudents, residents, village representatives and project workers. Theinterview method has been applied due to language problem faced by thelocals.

What is development?

The precise utilization of investigative and specialized information tomeet particular targets or necessities. It is the procedure offinancial and social change that is in view of complex social andnatural elements and their communications. The procedure of enhancingthe economy of a nation or area by expanding the measure of businessmovement.‘Development’ is a concept which is contested both theoretically and politically, and is inherently both complex and ambiguous’. (Thomas, 2004) (4)

Development in different sectors:Numerous advancements have been made in diverse parts of Nalter. Wewill discuss some of these developmental projects in here.The federal government and administration of Gilgit-Baltistan begansome projects in Nalter after a failure of long stretch. In thisexamination study we just talk about two divisions of advancement HydroPower and Tourism and we likewise highlight the regions whereimprovement is a critical need. Like street base, Health and Education.

1). Naltar-IV 18 MW Hydero Power ProjectThis project began in 2003, when General Pervez Musharraf was thePresident of Pakistan. He focused his consideration toward this

regressive territory and after a long arrangement of reviews the spotin Nalter had been chosen and the work began in 2003. The agreement hadgiven to a Chinese organization. Which finished the venture in October2007 at an expense of $23.49 million, (2.5 billion Pakistani Currency)the greater part of which was brought about in outside trade. The taskwas finished in around four years, over one year behind the timetable,likewise bringing about increment in venture cost by around 25 for eachpenny. (5)

The project has affected on the lives of Nalteries with respect to payera, job and the negative effect is the risk for the occupant's livesin light of the fact that the chenille of the water and dam of Projecthad been based on upper side of the town Jafar abad and Mehdi abad inLower Nalter. These two towns are most touchy and influenced by theventure. Amid the development of the undertaking overwhelming impactson the stoned mountain. That created sliding which demolished andharmed the yields, Plants, Houses, dairy cattle of the individuals.This substantial impacting brought about clamor contamination andinfluenced the mind of the inhabitants and particularly the youngsters.It was unsafe to cross that region. The inhabitants endured 3 yearslack of water because of harm of water channel for farming anddrinking. Because of concoction uses in blasting numerous sorts ofinfection demonstrated in Plants, creatures and the individuals. Theskin infection and eye diseases got to be scourge infections. (6)

The individuals had moved different zones, as indicated by the fakeguarantees of government delegate and responsible for the Project. Theydidn't sufficiently paid remuneration to the effectives. This gotfrustration and hatred the populace of Nalter.

The positive effect of this task is expansion of work open doors forlocal people. Around 50 individuals of Nalter ready to land position inthis undertaking which is a positive sign and it acquired monetaryflourishing the range. This is the real venture manufactured in Nalterwhich give 18 MG energy to District Gilgit and the capital city of GB.It is the greatest hydro force extend in Gilgit-Baltistan developedthrough a Chinese firm under the supervision of Water and Power office.

2. Nalter-V, 14.4 MG Hydero Power Project:Another most critical Project is Nalter-V force venture. Which wasintroduced in 2014 by the present Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Thisventure will be finished inside of 3 years period and a Chinese

organization is chipping away at this task. This task will help theauthoritative city and nearby ranges to overcome load shedding.

The keep running of-the waterway task would cost Rs3.84 billion andwould be finished by 2016. Once finished, the undertaking would helpdefeat the force deficiency standing up to the range. (7)

In this project the people of Nalter has lost their profitable landsyet at the same time they have not paid any remuneration. Theindividual by themselves tackling to get remuneration amount yet thedegenerate powers are requesting their offer (pay off). Because of suchunfairness the individuals are feeling anguished and disillusionment.The administration ought to focus and remunerate local people andacknowledge their requests. The nearby requests that the openings forwork will open in the task are right of Nalteries in light of the factthat they are genuine proprietors of this range. The administrationmust designate all staff from Nalter and give their privilege. (8)

3. Naltar-III, 16 MW Hydropower ProjectThis is the third real venture will be developed in Nalter. The projectwas endorsed on August 20, 2009 at an aggregate expense of Rs.381.600million. The Prime Minister's Inspection Commission (PMIC) has endorsedand chosen to hand over this task to a nearby firm. In any case, thisproject is still hanged following 2009. The expediency report hassanction and workplaces has been manufactured for the specialists. Itis said by a few sources that after the consummation of the 14 MGextend this project will begin. (9)

These are principle ventures which will get flourishing Nalterespecially and in GB for the most part. Be that as it may, over andover the populace of Nalter penance their territories for the purposeof thriving in the area. This task will be useful to minimize thedeficit of power and unemployment too. The populace of Nalter has anawesome trust on these two tasks so they will land enough positions.These are the requests of the individuals also. (10)

4. Nalter Ski ResortNalter is rich in her beauty, water resources, tourism, forests, lakes

and snow falling. There are two ski resorts in Nalter. Upper and lowerski resorts. The ski Resort is very large and vide. Since 1947 thePakistan Air Force uses this ski resort. Skiing comes naturally toalmost every girl, boy and man in Naltar. Most Naltaris cannot affordthe expensive ski kits available in the market and many thus tend tocarve their own kits from wood chopped from the pine forests nearby. Onthese same home-made wooden skis trained Mohammad Abbas and MohammadKarim the duo represented Pakistan in the Vancouver (Canada) and Sochi(Russia) winter Olympics respectively. Abbas’ homemade wooden kit ispresently displayed in a Canadian museum. Skiing is as much a traditionin Naltar as it is an identity. Naltari ski chairlifts are now the onlyoperational ones in Pakistan for winter games purposes. “Internationalski competitions can now be organized in Naltar and we can returnsporting activities to the country though winter games,” says Colonel(retd) Mohammad Walli, president of the Gilgit Baltistan SkiAssociation. “We have a wonderful ski slope, perhaps a hundred timesbetter than that of the Indian ski resort of Auli. We only needgovernment support and some public relations exercises. We areconfident that we can hold an international ski competition within oneyear.” (11)

This ski resort is the sole resort in Pakistan. The worldwide ski titlewill be held in Nalter first time ever. This ski resort comprise of180-seater Lift, which is extraordinary and excellent. The guests andtravelers likewise get advantage from this chance to sit down and go onthe highest point of the mountain. The Pakistan Air Force will beginthis lift amid summer for vacation spots. However, there rise aquestion, that what will the Nalteries get?

Rather than the proprietors of this area they are denied from thebenefit and they can't be misused. (12)

Pakistan Air Force will gain no less than 1 hundred to 2 hundredmillion from this ski-lift. Coherently the salary ought to go into thepockets of Nalteries in light of the fact that they are the genuineproprietors and they offer it to the PAF just for winter season. Bethat as it may, the PAF powers decline to give the ski-lift salary toindividuals. The populace of Nalter have effectively requested that no

less than fifty percent of gaining ought to be given to them yet theyare denying over and over again.

The occupants of the Village are exceptionally affable and deferentialindividuals. They generally respects their visitors. The legislatureand the Pakistan Air Force constantly debased the individuals. This isabsolutely uncalled for to snatch the area without paying single pennyconsequently. The locals are dependably to talk about the treacheriesdone to with them by the powers. (13)

Tourist Attraction in Nalter Valley:Naltar is probably one of the most remarkable beautiful valley inPakistan, for those people who like adventure and tourism. At Naltaryou very frequently see the attractive meadows and the temperature isalso very good, so one can have escape from Gilgit`s oppressive heat.

It is the perfect base for gentle walks through the forest, or you canfollow the jeep track up to Naltar Lake, where the fishing isexcellent. Naltar is also the starting point for more energetic treksacross the passes about 4,600 meters or 15,100 ft. (14)

The meadows of this valley and the glaciers on the top of the mountainsgetting attraction of the visitors. The greenery every side with greenal-pine thick forests presenting a heard touching scenario. No one wantto go back once reach there. Later you continue to Gilgit with severalphoto stops on the way. There are also some interesting Rock drawingsfrom the Buddhist period along the road.

Naltar is probably one of the most spectacular Excursions in Pakistan,for those who like a little bit of adventure. The road to Naltar ispretty but Very dusty until the village of Nomal after Nomal drivealong the side of mountains and the climb is quite steep. At Naltarvery instantly see the beautiful meadows the temperature is also verycomfortable so one can really get a fancy escape from Gilgit`s heat.There is a small restaurant at the meadows which can serve a hot mealtourists can carry Lunch boxes from Gilgit as well. (15)

Nagara ValleyNagara is the most beautiful valley in upper Nalter from the left sideof the valley near to ski lift resort. There is a hill from where the

all beauty of Nalter comes before the viewer. This beautiful valley isso attracted for every tourist that a tourist see the beauty of thisparadise like valley one time, he promised to come again and again.This is the most beautiful valley in Nalter and also famous for hugeproduction of potatoes.(16)

Fish Lake / Cheemo BariThis beautiful lake is full of trout’s fishes. The color of the lake isgreen same like the grass. But when any one can feel when near to thelake its shows seven different colours of lake. It’s of three KM fromthe valley of Khayott. (17)

Nalter Road and River:Nalter road started from Gilgit City toward the Karakorum InternationalUniversity along the left side of Hunza River and Karakurum Highway. Abridge linked with Karakurum highway from Nomal. Nomal is alsoimportant because it’s on the bank of Hunza river but Nalter riverfulfill its irrigation requirements. In the end of Nomal village theroad of Nalter is started. It is petty along with river of Nalter butit’s not vide and metaled. The poor condition of road caused many roadaccidents many people lost their lives. Road plays an important rolefor the development of any country, state, region or area. Withoutmatelled and vide road it’s not possible to exploit the resources ofany area. This is what happening with Nalter road. It is dire need ofthe day to construct a wide metaled road for Nalter because of the flowof tourists.(18)

Interview QuestionsThere some research questions about the development in Nalter and itsImpacts, which have been asked from the people. These questions havebeen asked from the notable persons of Nalter including students and aswell as educated men.

1. Do you think that development in Nalter has brought prosperity?

2. What do you have to say about the positive impact of developmenton the people?

3. Do you think that this development affected the lives of peopleand their health, plants, houses and land?

4. Do you think that future development projects will benefit thepeople of Nalter?

5. What will you demand from government authorities?

6. What is your opinion about Nalter ski resort royalty?

Answers of the Research interview QuestionsGhulam ShahRet. Sobidar Major From Pakistan Army,Village Representative from Nalter1. Yes, development has brought prosperity in here. The people ofNalter got jobs and they became prosperous. Mostly those people whowere unable to get a job and those who were unemployed. Now everyone ishappy.

2. The positive impact of the development is that economic prosperityand economic independence. It highlighted the importance of Nalter andthese projects also provide electricity to Nalter without any breakdown.

3. Obviously, these projects affected on the lives of people andoverall society. Due to these projects in our lives are atrisks. Thedam and water channel are like a water bomb for the people. At any timeit can be burst and diminish the houses, plants, land and cattle withhumans. We are fearful of this. Many people fell ill due to thechemical mixtures in the water during the mountain blasts. Particularlythe skin diseases were frequent like an epidemic.

4. Yes, they will get benefits in the shape of jobs and compensationsbut they will lose their lands, plants and safety as well.

5. Simple, we are demanding our safety, compensations, quota in jobsand free of cost electricity. When we are giving you our place andwater both then why not give us in return.

6. I have also reservations at this ski-resort. It had been taken fromour ancestors for only winter season, but they did not return our areaand grabbed it without compensation. Now they took more land, butrefuse to pay a single penny as compensation. We are demanding 50%income which will be generated from the ski-lift during summer season.We are demanding why they are not hiring us in this project and soliddemand of free PAF School for our children

Nihal HussainSocial worker, Village Committee MemberA School Teacher.1. ssDevelopment has brought prosperity in Naltar as people got jobsand they prospered. We can say it is good sign for our area but manydeserve people are still job less. It is our solid and rational demandto give priority in jobs for our people .

2. The positive impact in sense of the advancement is thateconomically flourishing and financial independence. Due to theseprojects and tourism resorts we have positive image around the GB andsuch development has been brought prosperity among the masses.

3. Clearly, these tasks influenced on lives of individuals and over allgeneral public. Because of these undertakings our lives on dangers. Thedam and water channel are similar to water bomb for the individuals. Inat whatever time it can be burst and lessen the houses, plants, areaand dairy cattle with people. We are frightful from this.

4 Obviously, It will be beneficial for the people of the area. It willchange the living standard of people.

5. we are demanding jobs, compensations, safety of the people, plantsand land.

6. We are not happy because of the fraudulent behavior of theauthorities. They are devastating our land which had been grabbedwithout compensation. It had been taken only for winter season from ourforefathers yet they didn't give back our territory and got it withoutpay. We are demanding 50% income generation from this resort, PAFschool for both parts of Nalter Lower and Upper and jobs for the

peoples.

Akbar HussainSchool Teacher and Social Worker

1. Off course it brought prosperity in the area and created jobs forunemployed and unskilled youth.

2. The positive effect of the improvement is that financial success andmonetary in-reliance. It highlighted the significance of Nalter andthese ventures additionally give power to Nalter with no load shedding

3. Clearly, these activities influenced on lives of individuals andover all general public. Because of these ventures our lives ondangers. The dam and water channel are similar to water bomb for theindividuals. In at whatever time it can be burst and lessen the houses,plants, area and dairy cattle with people. We are frightful from this.Numerous individuals felt sick because of concoction blend in the wateramid the mountains impacts. Especially the skin maladies weresuccessive like pestilence.

4. It will contribute in terms of jobs and coverage however they willlose their territories, plants and well-being too.

5. We, straightforwardly, are requesting for our wellbeing, pay, andstandard in occupations and free of expense power. Whereof, we are alsogiving you our place and water both.

6. I have likewise reservations on this ski-resort. It had been takenfrom our predecessors for just winter season yet they didn't give backour territory and abducted it without remuneration. At present theytook more land however decline to pay single penny as remuneration. Weare requesting 50% salary which will be created from the ski-lift amidsummer season. Want them to contract us in this project and also askfor a free PAF School for our children.

Raja Shahid HussainGrand Son of Nomberdar and Representative Committee Member

1. Development or growth has definitely brought prosperity in here. Thegreat mass of Nalter were not able to get a job or were unemployed. Nowgot jobs that made them happy.

2. The actual effects of the development is that it brought economicprosperity and economic independency. It also showcased the importanceof these projects in Nalter and without any load shedding it alsoprovided electrical energy to Nalter.

3. These projects changed the lives of hoi polloi and general public.The dam and water channel are like water bomb for the people bringingtheir lives at risk. In any time it can be busted while diminishing thehouses, plants, land and cattle of humans. This frightens everyone.Even the skin diseases were common like epidemic. Masses felt ill dueto chemical mixture in the water during the mountains blasts.

4. The people of Nalter will be benefitted in regard of jobs andreimbursements but in return they will also lose their lands, crops andshelter.

5. We are inductively authorizing our safety, compensations, quota injobs and free electricity. When we are giving you our place and waterboth then why not give us in reciprocation.

6. I have withal reservations on this ski-resort. It had been takenfrom our predecessors for only winter season but they did not returnour area and pretended it without emolument. Now they took more landbut reluctant to pay single penny as emolument. We are inductivelyauthorizing 50% income which will be engendered from the ski-hoistduring summer season. We are inductively authorizing why are not theyhire us in this project and solid ordinate for free PAF School for ourkids.

NizamuddinResearch Student

1. Yes, improvement has gotten success here. The populace of Nalterlanded positions and they get to be thrive. Basically those individualswho were not ready to land a position and those were unemployed.

Presently everybody is upbeat.

2. The positive effect of the improvement is that monetary flourishingand financial autonomy. It highlighted the significance of Nalter andthese activities additionally give power to Nalter with no heapshedding.

3. Clearly, these ventures influenced on lives of individuals and overall general public. Because of these ventures our lives on dangers. Thedam and water channel are similar to water bomb for the individuals. Inwhenever it can be burst and lessen the houses, plants, area and steerswith people. We are dreadful from this. Numerous individuals felt sickbecause of synthetic blend in the water amid the mountains impacts.Especially the skin infections were successive like pandemic.

4. Yes, they will get advantages fit as a fiddle of employments and payyet they will lose their territories, plants and security too.

5. Basically, we are requesting our security, pay, quota in employmentsand free of expensive power. When we are giving you our place and waterboth then why not give us consequently.

6. I have additionally reservations on this ski-resort. It had beentaken from our precursors for just winter season however they didn'tgive back our region and snatched it without remuneration. Presentlythey took more land yet decline to pay single penny as remuneration. Weare requesting 50% salary which will be created from the ski-lift amidsummer season. We are requesting why are not they contract us in thisventure and have strong interest of free PAF School for our youngsters.

Rahat HussainPresident of Nalter Student Organization

1. Indeed, development brought welfare in here. The individuals ofNalter got occupations and they flourished. Mostly those individualswho were not capable to get an occupation and furthermore theseindividuals were unemployed. At the moment, everybody is satisfied.

2. The certain effect of the improvement will be that monetary successand financial independency. It displayed vitality of Nalter as theseprojects provided electricity to Nalter beyond any load shedding.

3. Evidently, these projects influenced on exists of individuals andover all society. Because of these activities our lives on danger. Thedam and water channel are like water shell for the individuals. At anymoment, it can explode and reduce the houses, plants, land and cattlefor people. We are dreadful as numerous individuals felt sick becauseof concoction mixture in the water throughout mountains blasts.Especially, hose skin ailments were incessant similar epidemic.

4. Yes, they will avail in the terms of career and remittances Anyhowthey will also lose their lands, plants and as well as assurance.

5. Honestly, we are challenging for our security, remittances,allotment in employment and free electricity as in return we are alsogiving them our place and water both.

6. I need additionally reservations looking into this ski-resort. Itwas seized from our ascendant for sole winter season but they did notrestore our area and snatched it without remittances. Presently theytook a greater amount of area but rejected to pay money as remittances.We are demanding 50% income which will be generated from the ski-liftduring summer season. We are requesting half wage which will be createdfrom the ski-lift throughout midyear season. We’re requesting them toprocure us in this venture and also robust interest for free PAF schoolfor our kids.

Ghulam RazaEngineer of Electronics

1. The people of Nalter were unemployed but eventually they got jobsafter the development and that made everyone prosperous.

2. This development also brought an impact in terms of economicprosperity and economic independency. These projects only providedelectricity and no load-shedding to Nalter.

3. These projects brought immense change into the lives of the peopleof Nalter. It also risked our lives. The dam and water channel at anytime can be blowout like a water bomb while abolishing the houses,farmland and cattle. It’s a scary scenario. As many people were notfeeling well during the mountains blasts due to chemical compound inthe water that became epidemic for the skin.

4. They will have to lose their farms, house as well as welfare inorder to get compensation and jobs.

5. We simply demand that as we our giving up our area and water then inreturn we require safety, compensations, quota in jobs and free of costelectricity.

6. I have additionally reservations on this ski-resort. It had beentaken from our forebears for only winter season but they did not returnour area and apprehended it without emolument. Now they took more landbut hesitate to pay money as emolument. We are authoritativelymandating 50% income which will be engendered from the ski-hoist duringsummer season. We also demand to hire for this project and separatedemand for free PAF School for our kids.

Quljat HussainEngineer Electronics and Networking

1. Definitely the Naltaries got jobs after being unemployed and thismade their lives flourishing.

2. These developmental projects influenced fiscal growth and welfare.It even promoted the precedence of Nalter and these projects alsosupplied electricity without any load shedding to Nalter.

3. The lives of the people has been affected. It’s scary for theinhabitants as it jeopardize their lives. The dam and water channel aresimilar to water bomb for the people. If it explodes it might destroythe houses, plants, land and cattle with humans. Due to chemicalmixture in the water even people got sick causing them skin diseases.

4. They will gain profit in regard to jobs and compensations buteventually they will lose their lands, plants and security.

5. We even importunate for our security, remittances, quota in jobs andfree electricity. Because we will be giving them in return both placeand water.

6. The ski-resort has been taken from our forefathers saying that it’sonly for winter season but they did not gave our area back but insteadand they held it without making any payment. We are now challenging 50%income which will be produced through the ski-lift during summer

season. And also hire us in this project while establishing anindependent PAF School for the children.

Murad AliFormer Chairman Union Council

1. The people of Nalter got jobs and they become prosper. Yes,development has brought prosperity in here. Mostly those people whowere not able to get a job and those were unemplyed. Now everyone ishappy.

2. The impact of the development is that economic prosperity. Theseprojects also provide electricity to Nalter.

3. These projects affected the lives of people and society. Due tothese projects our lives on risks. The dam and water channel are likewater bomb for the people. It might burst and diminish the houses,plants, land and cattle with humans. Many people felt ill and got skindiseases due to chemical mixture in the water during the mountainsblasts.

4. They will yes get benefits through jobs and compensations but theywill surely lose their lands, plants and safety as well.

5. We are simply demanding our quota in jobs, safety, compensations,and free of cost electricity. As we are also giving our place and waterto them.

6. The ski-resort was taken away from our ancestors and in return theydidn’t even pay any type of settlement. Therefore, we now demand a 50%income through the ski-lift during summer season. They should contractus for these projects and we also have a firm demand for PAF School sothat our children get free education.

Barrat AliProminent Social Woker for the Rights of Nalter and Politicalworker

1. Yes, development has brought prosperity in here. The people ofNalter got jobs and they become prosper. Mostly those people who werenot able to get a job and those were unemplyed. Now everyone is happy.

2. The positive impact of the development is that economic prosperityand economic independency. It highlighted the importance of Nalter andthese projects also provide electricity to Nalter without any loadshedding.

3. obviously, these projects affected on lives of people and over allsociety. Due to these projects our lives on risks. The dam and waterchannel are like water bomb for the people. In any time it can be burstand diminish the houses, plants, land and cattle with humans. We arefearful from this. Many people felt ill due to chemical mixture in thewater during the mountains blasts. Particularly the skin diseases werefrequent like epidemic.

4. Yes, they will get benefits in the shape of jobs and compensationsbut they will lose their lands, plants and safety as well.

5. Simple, we are demanding our safety, compensations, quota in jobsand free of cost electricity. When we are giving you our place andwater both then why not give us in return.

6. I have also reservations on this ski-resort. It had been taken fromour ancestors for only winter season but they did not return our areaand grabbed it without compensation. Now they took more land but refuseto pay single penny as compensation. We are demanding 50% income whichwill be generated from the ski-lift during summer season. We aredemanding why are not they hire us in this project and solid demand offree PAF School for our children.

Results and Suggestions

Following factors need to be kept in mind in terms of bringingdevelopment in areas of Naltar:

1. Road Infrastructure is poor and it is dire need of metal road fromGilgit to Nalter so that tourists and visitors comes and go easily.The road infrastructure plays an important role in the developmentof any area. The non-metaled and narrow road has become bad dreamfor the tourists. The authorities should pay their heads forbetterment of the road condition.

2. The health facilities in Nalter are rare. There is a smalldispensary which is with out of medicine and doctor. It is dire needof the day to build a hospital so that if any accident occurs itwill help as first aid. The recent incident of helicopter crush ofenvoys is best example... In such situation there is no medicaltreatment facility. The government should keep in mind that the flowof tourists bring accidents with them.

3. The education in Nalter is too backward. In more 5 thousandpopulated area there is no single college of boys and girls. Thegovernment only getting benefits from the resources of the area. Thestudents of Nalter are facing to get education, they have to goGilgit city and it’s not affordable.

4. The government authorities, PAF and Pakistan Army should keep inmind that there must and must arrange fire brigade system. Two fatalincidents already occurred of fire. The one was the PAF Messbuilding caught fire some 13 years ago and the whole buildingcompletely burnt. There was no such a system to control on the fire.The second incident is the Helicopter crash on Army Public Schooland it caught fire and burnt whole school building and surroundingbuildings but there was no system. The locals control fire to notspreading. The area is beautiful and full of alpine forests due toflow of local tourists it may be occur such an incident of fire.Therefore there should be an arrangement of fire brigade.

5. It reflects in depilated infrastructure, load-shedding, scarcity ofclean drinking water,  lack of quality health care and educationsystem, environmental degradation and pollution

6. Low progress in agriculture, livestock, animal husbandry andfisheries, slump in tourism industry, inefficiency of culturalactivity, literature and sports departments and sectarian violencein the region.

Conclusion

Nalter is a resplendent Valley in Gilgit famous for its natural allure,including: glaciers, astronomically immense meadows, thick Al-pineforests, Birch forests, graceful and immensely colossal lakes, ski-resorts. Nalter is called “Paradise on Earth” “Switzerland of Pakistan”

and “Water Bank of Gilgit” due to sizable voluminous reservoirs ofglaciers.

Due to water bank the GB administration convene on Nalter and threemajor hydro power projects have been constructed to surmount the energycrisis of Gilgit. These developments brought transmutations in physicof the valley and withal in the lives of the peoples. They lose theirhouses, land, plants, safety but got jobs and little emolument inreciprocation.Nalter ski-Resort and Hydro Power projects are most astronomicallyimmense projects in Gilgit-Baltistan till to date. It is good hope thatgovernment will get benefit from the resources of the valley and inreturn give same benefits to the people of the area.

REFERENCES

(1) “Naltar Valley of Gilgit Baltistan” The Lovely Planet, 2011, http://www.thelovelyplanet.net/naltar-valley-of-gilgit-baltistan/

(2) Sheikh, Kashif M., “Ecological Studies of Aviafuana in NalterValley, Northern Pakistan with a Conservation Perspective” (Diss...PhD thesis, Quaid-i-Azam University, 2000),

(3) http://news.uniquepakistan.com.pk/pakistan-gets-first-ski-chairlift-naltar-valley/

(4) Thomas, A. (2004)-The Study of Development. Paper prepared for DSAAnnual Conference, 6 November, Church House, London

(5) "" Naltar hydropower projects delayed” Dawn, http://www.dawn.com/news/597545/naltar-hydropower-projects-delayed-2

(6) Ibid.

(7) Associated Press of Pakistan, http://www.app.com.pk/en_/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19209

(8) Radio Pakistan: http://www.radio.gov.pk/newsdetail/66804/11(9) NESPAK ENGINEERING SERVICES PAKISTAN (PVT.LTD)

http://www.nespak.com.pk/news/newsdetail.asp?id=3089 (10) “Gilgit-Baltistan govt approves 16 hydro-power and electricity

projects” PAMIR TIMES, http://pamirtimes.net/2014/01/27/gilgit-baltistan-govt-approves-16-hydro-power-electricity-projects/

(11) “Naltar Valley: Skiing on the magic carpet” Dawn,www.dawn.com/news/1136906

(12) IBID.(13) IBID.(14) IBID.(15) IBID. (16)

Nizamuddin, “Nalter Valley and Its Importance for Gilgit” DailyK2, WWW.k2.com

(17)

Abbas, Azfar, “ Nalter Lake” Daily K2, www.k2.com

(18)

Nizamuddin, “The Road to Nalter” Daily K2, www.k2.com

Nizamuddin