NHRC notes risks of Laos dam

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has concluded that the planned Pak Beng hydropower dam in Laos poses significant human rights implications for Thailand.

- APINYA WIPATAYOTIN

NHRC commissioner Wasan Paileeklee said yesterday the commission received a complaint in June 2023 alleging the Ministry of Energy and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) were finalising a power purchase contract with the Pak Beng dam project despite serious cross-border concerns.

The complainant argued the dam could alter water levels in the Mekong River, causing overflows, flooding of islets, and complications in terms of Thai-Lao border demarcation. Additional concerns included ecological disruption in the Mekong and its tributaries, as well as the impact on local livelihoods.