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The initial findings of the study finds that only 25 percent of the population agree with the Regional Rice Hub policy, although amongst them are influential political and economic actors including the rice millers and large-scale farmers. The other 75 percent include residents with a diverse range of mainly small-scale livelihoods including fishing, tourism, services sectors, and farming. From the initial survey, a specific alternative recommendation didn’t emerge, but expressed a general viewpoint that the Regional Rice Hub policy could undermine their livelihoods and affect the town’s local environment and culture.

On hearing the study’s findings, the Governor indicates their general support for the Rice Hub plan, as it seems like a more definite strategy to be acted upon for economic growth and to address electricity shortage. However, the Governor is also concerned that many residents do not agree with the plan, even as alternatives are not identified. All of these considerations could emerge as election issues the following year.

One option is to conduct a primarily technical study on other options for large-scale projects beyond the Regional Rice Hub that includes an option for the large-dam but other possibilities for large-scale development as well. A second option is to set up a new committee with representative members from across the town’s professions mandated to identify new development pathways for Riverbank City.

Will you advise to the Governor to conduct a technical study on other options for large-scale projects beyond the Regional Rice Hub or set up a committee to identify new development pathways?