The remote Himalayan village of Pharping has long thrived on a delicate balance. Nestled precariously on a mountainside, its existence hinges on the capriciousness of nature. Monsoon rains, vital for agriculture, can also unleash devastating landslides, a constant threat amplified by deforestation and climate change. For generations, the villagers have relied on a blend of traditional farming practices and their deeply held Buddhist beliefs. The annual prayer ceremonies, seeking blessings for bountiful harvests and protection from natural disasters, are integral to their lives. These rituals are not merely symbolic; they provide a framework for communal solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity. However, this traditional equilibrium is increasingly challenged by external forces. The construction of a new hydroelectric dam, fueled by the global demand for renewable energy, promises economic development but also threatens the very landscape that sustains Pharping. The dam, while utilizing a supposedly clean energy source, necessitates the inundation of fertile farmland and the relocation of several families. This is juxtaposed against the village's history of relying upon traditional methods of water management that have served them well for generations. The construction also requires the transportation of heavy machinery, further contributing to the erosion of the fragile mountainside. Furthermore, the villagers' faith, while a source of strength, offers limited protection against the tangible effects of climate change, a phenomenon largely driven by the global consumption of fossil fuels. The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events—landslides, floods, and droughts—directly contradict the villagers' long-held beliefs about the predictability of nature. This dissonance between religious beliefs and the harsh realities of a changing climate poses a significant challenge to their way of life. The situation in Pharping epitomizes a global dilemma: the tension between sustainable development, religious beliefs, and the legacy of fossil fuel reliance. The question remains: how can progress be achieved without sacrificing the cultural heritage and ecological balance that have sustained communities like Pharping for centuries?
1. According to the passage, what is the primary threat to the village of Pharping?
2. What role does religion play in the lives of the villagers of Pharping?
3. What is the author's main purpose in presenting the case study of Pharping?
4. The passage suggests that the construction of the hydroelectric dam, despite being a source of renewable energy, presents what kind of paradox?