Senate Oks Sesan Dam Payment Deal
After a 60- minute debate, the Senate on Friday voted in favour of a payment guarantee for the private companies constructing the controversial Lower Sesan 2 dam in Stung Treng province. At the Senate session, 43 out of 48 senators voted to approve the deal which includes payment guarantees to Kith Meng’s Royal Group and China’s Hydrolancang International Energy Co. Ltd … The impact on fisheries and local communities who depend on the resources of the Sesan River was still small compared to the benefits the government can gain from the hydropower project, Mr. Sarith said after the vote. “In two critical studies evaluating all factors of impacts, we have seen that the impact is minor compared to the benefit.” … Two studies estimate that up to 10,000 families from Srekor, Phluk and Kabal Romeas communes will be displaced once the construction of the dam goes ahead. … Chan Than, a representative for Srekor commune, said the lack of information in the past have raised concerns in his community about such government promises. … “We never had the intention to oppose the dam … but the government should provide clear information about the risks and compensation deal” he said. …
