A workshop led by Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD) discussed energy initiatives, both in Shan state and nationally. Attended by nearly all of the party’s caucus, the workshop in state capital Taunggyi, highlighted possible negative outcomes of dam projects, particularly those planned on the Salween River.
SNLD MP from Lashio District Sai Wan Leng Kham explained the event that was convened in association with the Mekong Energy and Ecology Network (MEE Net) evaluated possible implications of large scale dam projects.
Although “electricity is needed”, Sai Wan Leng Kham said, consideration needs to be given to minimize the disadvantages these projects can have for the community.
For example, if the Mong Ton dam one of the tallest dams in Southeast Asia goes ahead there will be extensive flooding over a large section of eastern Shan State. The dam is to be built by a consortium of firms led by China Three Gorges Corporation.
Sai Wan Leng Kham said: “There aren’t any policies that concern electricity in Burma. We can try to find methods from this workshop to submit policies and laws related to electricity in parliament.”
The Action for Shan Rivers (ASR) sent an open letter to State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi criticizing four dams proposed on Namtu/Myitnge River in northern Shan State. One includes, the Middle Yeywa dam (700 MW) financed by Norway’s state-owned SN Power in Nawng Khio Township.
ASR's new report “Save the Namtu River” said there were “serious concerns about the findings of the pre-feasibility study” for the dam projects after it failed to account for ongoing conflicts in northern Shan State by indicating that no major barriers existed for the planned projects.
North of the Upper Yeywa dam site, the Burma Army has been launching extensive offensives against Shan State Progress Party/Shan State Army, including airstrikes.
Norway a major donor of the country’s peace process, according to the report is investing in contested areas of northern Shan State.
