Two Indians figure in the 12-member World Commission on Dams
The World Commission on Dams (WCD) has been formed to review the efficacy of large dams in various countries. It will be chaired by Kader Asmal, the water affairs and forestry minister of South Africa. The Indian high commissioner to South Africa, Laxmi Chand Jain will be its vice chair-person. The founder of the Narmada Bachao Andolan, Medha Patkar is also on the panel.
The WCD has to formulate norms and guidelines pertaining to construction of large dams and complete its review by the year 2000. Among other aspects, the Commission will have to address the resettlement and rehabilitation aspects, covering issues like the mode of payment of compensation.
The findings of the WCD may answer the question whether large dams are necessary and, and if they are, what safeguards that must be put in place to prevent ecological damage and ensure safety of the local population.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.