Monday October 28, 2024
Thaiger —
Transboundary hydropower dam projects along the Mekong River could jeopardise Thailand’s environment, economy, and community welfare, according to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on October 3, the NHRC highlighted its concerns about four hydropower dam projects: Ban Koum Dam, Sanakham Dam, Phou Ngoy Dam, and Pak Chom Dam, all situated on the Lower Mekong along the Thai-Lao border. These projects are developed by registered Thai companies.
The NHRC’s intervention followed complaints from local communities about the potential environmental degradation, deterioration of living conditions, and possible human rights infringements due to the dam projects.
Upon reviewing the proposals, the NHRC identified that, despite the dams being constructed on the Lao side of the Mekong River, their proximity to Thailand poses significant cross-border risks, particularly in Loei and Ubon Ratchathani provinces.