Bandipora, Jul 19: Athwatoo, a popular tourist place in north Kashmir’s Bandipora, faces a major challenge as the government’s plan for a 2 MegaWatt hydroelectric power project threatens to alter the flow of water through its main tourist spot.
The government has proposed to build a 2 MW power project on the Madumati Nallah in Athwatoo for which water from the riverfront will have to be diverted upstream.
The initiative is part of 35 hydroelectric power projects spanning 15 districts across Jammu and Kashmir to generate 60.05 MWs of electricity. The initiative is under the aegis of Department of Science and Technology, Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency.
The water will be diverted uphill from a guesthouse, belonging to a local upto Athwatoo bridge, where the power house is being built.
The core concern among local residents and various stakeholders centers on the project’s proposal to divert water from the Madhumati Nallah—the very heart of Athwatoo’s tourist allure. For years, the riverside has been the hub for fishing, picnics, camping and nature walks.
The expected reduction in water flowing through the main recreational zone has sparked fears of declining visitor interest and economic loss for the stakeholders, who rely heavily on nature-based tourism.
“We are very worried,” says one of the stakeholders. “If the river dries up or the water level drops, there’s nothing left to show our guests. Everything here revolves around the river.”
Locals explain that the river’s crystal-clear waters and soothing flow have earned Athwatoo a reputation as a peaceful escape, attracting travellers from across the Valley and beyond.
For many, activities like riverside camping, other adventure activities and simply relaxing by the sound of rushing water define the Athwatoo experience.
They warned that diverting water upstream for power generation could permanently alter the landscapes and ecology of the riverbank. “Even a modest reduction in water flow can drastically change the scenery. Tourist interest and local biodiversity are both at risk,” they said.
They urged the authorities concerned to review and revisit the decision, suggesting the project could be built on the same riverfront but a couple of kilometres away from the proposed site so that water could not be diverted near the main recreational zone.
Notably, a government Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) is also at the same spot as this is the main attraction in Athwatoo.
“Diverting water from the main recreational zone will have a drastic impact. Visitors come here for the river. If we lose even part of its charm, our livelihoods will be hit hard,” the locals and stakeholder lamented, hoping their voices will be heard. (KNO)
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