… Despite Mr. Piyasvasti’s vows to scrap the Salween hydro projects, preparations for the dams continue and many observers believe that planning for at least two of the proposed dams, at Hat Gyi and Tasang, could be too far advanced to simply put construction on hold, with or without Thai participation. Indeed, Piyasvasti accompanied interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont on an official visit to Myanmar in late November to discuss development of the first dam at Hat Gyi in Karen State.

… In April 2004, China postponed its own plans to build 13 dams along the upper reaches of the Salween – called the Nu River in China – after intense lobbying by Chinese NGOs and prominent academics. In military-ruled Myanmar however it is highly unlikely that similar voices of dissent would ever have been heard. While on-site preparations for the dams move forward – and SPDC offensives intensify Ð the fate of the Salween and its people floats precariously in the balance. Read the full story [PDF] .