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The Governor of Riverbank City would like to initiate a new development program for the city and its surrounding areas, and is considering a proposal to establish a ‘Regional Rice Hub’ plan. Central to the plan is the construction of a large dam on the river that passes through the city. The proposed dam would be located upstream of Riverbank City.

The large dam would produce electricity for rice milling companies, and would also sell electricity to Riverbank City itself, which is starting to face a shortage of supply. The dam would also regulate and manage water to irrigate large-scale rice paddy fields. However, other local livelihoods relate to fishing on the river, and the dam could affect the rich biodiversity of the river.

The Governor, who is facing an election next year, has asked your advice on the plan. What would you recommend?

Would you advise to initiate a study on the feasibility of the large dam, which is central to moving forward with the Regional Rice Hub plan, or advise to study other development options?