It is sincerely suggested to the government to form an international commission of internationally accredited technical experts, taken from the fields of civil and structural engineering, power generation, irrigation, agriculture, hydro and soil mechanics, construction of mega sized dams, environmental science, project economics and finance, to evaluate the KBD project from every conceivable aspect, both negative and positive impacts, in the context of national importance, necessity and compulsion, and finally present its report for the consideration of the government to take the ultimate decision in the larger national interest.

This report should be made public for the nation's understanding and developing a consensus with regards to merits and demerits of KBD. In the best traditions of principles of democracy, holding of a national referendum over the issue, is another viable option that can be exercised.

If the project is viable, feasible and meets the requisite parameters by the commission's evaluative report, or otherwise, it should be accepted by all, without reservations, whatever the experts suggest and recommend in this regard, period. Spending a few millions of dollars on the most critical national issue of conservation of water for agriculture, food autarky, much needed power generation, irrigation and flood control, on the KBD exercise, will be a good and worthwhile investment, for the ultimate betterment of the life of an impoverished nation.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2012