In Georgia, locals voice opposition to mega dam during consultations despite intimidation, 17 September 2013

A public debate over the fate of the Khudoni dam in western Georgia turned tense today as locals opposing the project were intimidated by authorities and the project developer, Transelectrica LTD. Despite the threats, villagers in Khaishi turned out in significant numbers to the consultation to express their opposition to the project...

Bankwatch representatives in Khaishi today were told how, one day before the consultations, the deputy head of the regional police department and the Transelectrica director present in the village warned locals not to put up posters critical of the project or protest against it. Before the consultations began today, an unprecedented police presence was visible in front of the municipality building where the debate took place. Despite this, villagers came out in important numbers to protest the project and demand their lands back.