Tiger Leaping Gorge: nearing the end?

I complain a lot about Chinese policy, especially as it most often adversely affects the majority of China's population, but this story hits close to home. A dam is being planned for construction along the river that runs through Tiger Leaping Gorge. If constructed, it would create a massive lake that backs up 200km and would spell the end of the gorge and the livelihood of thousands of local farmers and locals engaged in the tourism industry in the area.

When I went to the village home of our driver close to Tiger Leaping Gorge, her family told us that only two days before, there had been a protest by locals that prompted the closing of the town. No foreigners, reporters or any other outside people were allowed into the town-I didn't inquire more into the issue (I wish I had) but it sounded like it was a violent one if they have to close the town. It would have been very interesting/thrilling to have been there during the protest, but then again I may have gotten my head bashed in so it was probably best the reporter in our group and I (the foreigner) weren't present.

Anyway, if you liked what you saw of the gorge it'd be best to visit Tiger Leaping Gorge in the very near future before it is gone forever, just like the Three Gorges. According to the article, construction on the dam may begin as early as 2008. I may have to make a return trip to the gorge before then. I think it would feel a bit like visiting an old friend on his deathbed.