Naypyidaw: Myanmar’s government is preparing to restart the Myitsone Dam project, a long-delayed $3.6 billion hydropower development backed by China. Officials aim to complete the project within the next eight years, marking a major step toward reviving one of the country’s most controversial infrastructure projects.
The plan follows President Min Aung Hlaing’s recent visit to China, where discussions reportedly included the future of the dam. Construction on the project was suspended in 2011 after widespread public opposition over environmental concerns, the displacement of local communities and plans to export most of the electricity generated to China.
Officials in Kachin State have indicated that construction could begin soon, with an official announcement expected in the coming weeks. Government representatives say the project could help address Myanmar’s severe electricity shortages by providing more than half of the country’s estimated power needs.
The Myitsone Dam would be built at the confluence of the Mali and Nmai rivers in northern Kachin State and is expected to generate up to six gigawatts of electricity. Based on current construction costs, experts estimate the revived project could now require an investment of around $11.5 billion, significantly higher than the original estimate made in 2009.
Myanmar’s government says environmental concerns, including flooding risks and the relocation of nearby communities, are being carefully assessed before construction resumes. Officials also claim that modern engineering technology will help improve the project’s safety, despite concerns following last year’s powerful earthquake in central Myanmar.
Opposition to the Myitsone Dam remains strong. Dozens of civil society organisations have called for the project to be permanently cancelled, arguing that it threatens local communities, the environment and cultural heritage. Despite the continued criticism, the government appears determined to move forward with the China-backed project as part of its long-term energy strategy.
TRENDING | WhatsApp lets users chat without sharing phone numbers
