Wednesday, 14 September 2011 14:55 Salai Z T Lian
(Commentary) – The Burmese people are sensitive about the Irrawaddy River. They believe it is the heart of Burma because it contributes so many resources, and they want to keep it as natural as possible.
That’s why most Burmese want the government to abandon its planned dam projects, especially the Myitsone Dam hydropower project which will have a capacity of 6,000 megawatts near the Maykha-Malikha confluence in northern Burma where the Irrawaddy River originates. There is a big disagreement between the government and the people. The government wants to continue it, but the people don’t want it.
The government knows the people are concerned. However, it seems determined to carry on with the project. One reason to continue the project could be the contracts it has already signed which can cost it millions of dollars if the project is cancelled or suspended.
It is an environmental issue, but it could lead to anti-government protests. You’ll recall a student, Phone Maw, was shot to death and the 8888 uprising surged, and the fuel rise stirred up the 2007 Saffron Revolution. Concern over the Irrawaddy River could cause the Burmese people to unite in one voice: Save the Irrawaddy! If their burning desire for democracy and freedom is added to their concerns, it could bring change to Burma. At least, for now, the government should reconsider the Irrawaddy River-Myitsone Dam project.
Environmentalists, journalists, politicians, activists and artists, not to mention Aung San Suu Kyi, have voiced their concerns. Also, Tun Lwin, the well-known, retired Burmese meteorologist, has said that he opposes the project. However, the government has ignored their concerns and the people are considering what to do next.
At a recent press conference, No. 1 Power Minister Zaw Min declared that nothing would stop them from carrying on the project. Actually, it is a risky step, and they will likely face protests on the streets sooner or later.
The government must choose: the benefits of the dam project or face the people’s protests.
(Commentary) – The Burmese people are sensitive about the Irrawaddy River. They believe it is the heart of Burma because it contributes so many resources, and they want to keep it as natural as possible.
That’s why most Burmese want the government to abandon its planned dam projects, especially the Myitsone Dam hydropower project which will have a capacity of 6,000 megawatts near the Maykha-Malikha confluence in northern Burma where the Irrawaddy River originates. There is a big disagreement between the government and the people. The government wants to continue it, but the people don’t want it.
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| This file photo, taken 21 years ago, shows the confluence of the Mali Hka and Nmai Hka rivers. Photo: Mizzima |
The government knows the people are concerned. However, it seems determined to carry on with the project. One reason to continue the project could be the contracts it has already signed which can cost it millions of dollars if the project is cancelled or suspended.
It is an environmental issue, but it could lead to anti-government protests. You’ll recall a student, Phone Maw, was shot to death and the 8888 uprising surged, and the fuel rise stirred up the 2007 Saffron Revolution. Concern over the Irrawaddy River could cause the Burmese people to unite in one voice: Save the Irrawaddy! If their burning desire for democracy and freedom is added to their concerns, it could bring change to Burma. At least, for now, the government should reconsider the Irrawaddy River-Myitsone Dam project.
Environmentalists, journalists, politicians, activists and artists, not to mention Aung San Suu Kyi, have voiced their concerns. Also, Tun Lwin, the well-known, retired Burmese meteorologist, has said that he opposes the project. However, the government has ignored their concerns and the people are considering what to do next.
At a recent press conference, No. 1 Power Minister Zaw Min declared that nothing would stop them from carrying on the project. Actually, it is a risky step, and they will likely face protests on the streets sooner or later.
The government must choose: the benefits of the dam project or face the people’s protests.
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