PJB-2017-893
ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF DIAMIR BHASHA DAM GILGIT-BALTISTAN, PAKISTAN
Asfandyar Shahab
Abstract
In order to evaluate potential impacts of dam construction on ecosystem, this study was carried out on proposed site of Diamir Basha Dam Gilgit- Baltistan Pakistan. The aim was to assess ecological impacts upon biodiversity and ecology of Chilas area nearby to dam area. Vegetation analyses were accomplished using random sampling technique. Line transects and quadrat methods were used for assessing phytosociological characteristics. The floral parameters recorded were percent cover, species richness, vegetation composition, frequency and density. The faunal data was obtained by visual observations and from available reported literature. Checklists and matrices were used to carry out ecological analysis. Recorded data were then subjected to Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to compare distribution of sustained and lost vegetation. The ecological indices portray moderate diversity in the study area. The study depicted that few species like Salix tetrasperma, Rumex dentatis, Trifolium resupinatum and Ploygonum species will be able to sustain after the period of high peak flow. The study suggests severe disturbances to current biodiversity and habitat with high vulnerability due to blasting, quarrying and traffic noise. Positive land use changes with favourable environmental conditions are probable which would favour fisheries, biodiversity, agriculture and tourism after the dam becomes operational. The study also provided information on the present status of biological and ecological conditions which would be used as a reference datum and helpful for comparative analysis of loss once the dam is constructed.
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