MRC implements consultations on Lao hydropower project

Mekong River Commission implements consultations on Lao hydropower project

The Mekong River Commission (MRC) has recently decided to carry out consultations on the Pak Lay hydropower project in Laos, starting on August 8, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Hanoi (VNA) – The Mekong River Commission (MRC)has recently decided to carry out consultations on the Pak Lay hydropowerproject in Laos, starting on August 8, according to the Vietnamese Ministry ofAgriculture and Rural Development.

Vietnam’s consultation work is being held from August 2018to February 2019 by the ministry and the Vietnam National Mekong Committee,with a focus on assessing the project’s consequences, especially thoseaffecting Vietnam; holding national consultation workshops; and preparing Vietnam’sideas at regional consultations.

Representatives of Vietnamese ministries and sectors, MekongDelta localities, non-governmental organisations, and scientists areparticipating in the consultation procedures.

Pak Lay will be the fourth hydroelectric facility to bebuilt on the Mekong River as proposed by the Lao government, following DonSahong, Xayaburi, and Pak Beng.

On June 12, the Lao National Mekong Committee submitted adetailed description of the planned project to the MRC Secretariat for reviewand to inform member countries about the project’s scope and other requirementsunder the consultation process.

The MRC will organise the first regional stakeholder forumon the Pak Lay hydropower project in Vientiane, Laos, on September 20-21.

The forum aims to provide information on the Pak Lay projectand the MRC’s prior consultation process, looking to create a platform that enablesstakeholders to raise their legitimate concerns and give suggestions on theproject and its activities.

This is also a unique opportunity for involved parties toshare and take note of all concerns with MRC member countries, especially thoseproposing the construction of hydropower plants, in order to ease any dismay.

The Pak Lay dam was proposed to be built in Laos’ Xayaburiprovince. The dam is located downstream of the Xayaburi dam – which is nownearing completion – and approximately 100km from the Thai border.

The construction of the 770MW project is expected to startin 2022 and be completed by 2029. –VNA 
VNA

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