Flow modification, loss of wetlands, deterioration of habitats, pressure on the fishing industry and limited sharing of development information worries the four countries that are part of the Mekong River Commission (MRC).
Category: Mekong
Expert Commentary on the ‘Review of Design Changes Made for the Xayaburi Hydropower Project’
Report draws out key points and discusses their implications for Xayaburi and other dams under construction or consideration on the lower Mekong mainstream and within the region.
Dam Development Is ‘Silencing’ the Mekong River
As the first dam on the Lower Mekong begins operations, a major turning point for the ecological well being of the basin is occurring, as well as for the millions of river-dependent people affected.
Study shows limits for sustainable hydropower in the Mekong
Limited opportunities remain for less impactful hydropower in the lower basin, where most development is currently planned, while better trade-offs could be reached with dams in the upper Mekong in China.
MRC takes note of challenges facing Mekong basin
In the release of its State of the Basin Report, the MRC has urged member countries and stakeholders to urgently step up measures to better manage the Mekong river to protect remaining wetlands and riverine habitats.
Making Sense of the “Many Mekongs”
Making relevant the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy, an initiative launched by a predecessor in 2003 that has languished for several years.
Asia’s small farmers harness technology to combat climate change
CropLife Asia and the German development agency GIZ worked with Vietnam to teach 17,000 Mekong Delta farmers to use crop protection products and intervene when pests threatens crops. Also under way in Thailand.
Mekong water level in Nakhon Phanom drops amid drought fears
Lowest flow in 50 years. People believe this is a result of dams in China releasing little or no water downstream, as well as this year’s low volume of rain.
Laos Urged to Cancel Latest Dam for Mainstream Mekong
“For the past four prior (Mekong dam) consultation processes that we have experienced, we’ve seen big loopholes and the exclusion of affected communities in the process.”