Villages at Salwen River to be ordered to relocate: Shan environmentalist

In year 2010 Tasang Dam on Salwen was built. It is about 10 km. from Mongton southern Shan State. Just recently the Tasang Dam has been transferred and renamed "Mongton Hydroelectric Power Project, according to news reported from SHAN.

Reports received from Shan Saphawa, a Shan environmental organization revealed that because of this project almost eight townships situated along the Salween River would go under water. Now the government has began relocating these affected locals.

Around 400 people works for the construction of Mongton Hydroelectric Power Project. Green houses and halls have been built for the construction workers to stay. The relocation order will be for 123 villages along the Salween River.

SaiKherSeng of the Shan Saphawa organization said that small villages have started the relocation. This project is critical because they have to sacrifice something in exchange from what will they benefit from it, the report said.

He further added that ninety percent of the power will be sold to EGAT, a Thailand based company once the hydroelectric power is in operation. Only 10% will be used in the country and there's no certainty for the locals, the report said.

Original source: http://www.betweenonline.com/2013/03/20/villages-at-salwen-river-to-be-ordered-to-relocate-shan-environmentalist/