The local government in Aruba has proposed building a dam across the nearby River Nile. Stakeholders discuss the potential positive and negative impacts of the dam. Farmers note it could provide hydroelectric power, control flooding levels, and ensure a steady water supply, but others argue it may reduce soil fertility downstream and lower fishermen's incomes by trapping fish and sediments. The environmentalist is concerned it could damage habitats and ecosystems during construction. The government representative believes it will allow water storage and local hydroelectric power generation with treated water. Locals are divided, with some arguing it will provide power, flood control and water, while others fear pollution, forced relocation and loss of farmland and tourism.

1. All of you are the residents of Aruba (area located next to River
Nile). The local government has decided to build a dam across
the river. By assuming different roles, discuss the positive
and/or negative impacts on the physical environment and the
effects on the locals.
Farmer (yes!) - Nadhirah
Hydroelectric power for farmers
Control water level when there's flooding
Sufficient water supply throughout the year
Farmer (NO!) - Kai Ze
No flooding at the lower course of river will affect soil fertility; income will be
lesser
Fishermen – Natasha
affect income as fish are trapped behind the dam
sediments trapped behind dam will affect fish supply
sediments trapped behind the dam will affect the farmers located after the dam.
More chemical fertilisers have to be used. This may be washed into the river
and thus affects the fish supply and in turn the livelihood of farmers
Environmentalist – Jeremy Kho
Remove vegetation during construction; affect ecosystems
Lesser trees transpire; may influence global warming
Marine life affected with construction
Sediments trapped behind dam and not carried to lower course
Loss of land for farming
Rep. From Government – Jun Kai
Able to store water for future use
Harness hydroelectric power for local use
*Install filters to remove impurities; water is cleaner for use
Local (YES) – Glenn
hydroelectric power for local; cheaper electricity
reduce flooding; control water level
provide steady supply of water
Behind the dam has more fish; higher income for fishermen
Local (NO) – Yi Heng
water supply will be contaminated during construction
locals may have to relocate further from the river

2. Affects surrounding scenery; may affect tourists
No fertile soil for farming
Tourist – Irfan
remote areas will have electricity; benefit tourists
without flood, able to travel to more areas throughout the year
sufficient water supply throughout the year
Investor s – Jar ed
Bring in income for locals as money pours in from investors