A coalition of 49 Kachin civil society organizations issued a joint statement on Tuesday demanding the immediate and “total cessation” of the controversial Myitsone hydropower dam project, condemning the military regime for organizing sham public consultations and threatening local residents.
It had previously been suspended in 2011 by then-President Thein Sein following intense public backlash over severe earthquake risks, as the site sits just 16 miles (25.4 km) northeast of the active Sagaing Fault.
“It offers no benefits to the public and will only result in the severe destruction and loss of people’s lives, homes and properties. It is in direct opposition to the will of local Kachin people and the citizens of Myanmar,” the 49 Kachin groups wrote in their May 4 joint statement.
The groups are also demanding an immediate halt to all lobbying efforts and the intimidation of civilians.
Residents of the Kachin State capital, Myitkyina, told DVB that they are currently unable to publicly criticize the regime’s plans to resume the project due to a pervasive fear of arrest and persecution.
The environmental and physical scale of the Myitsone dam is staggering. According to a 2013 environmental impact assessment, the dam would measure over 450 feet high and about 4,300 feet wide, ultimately flooding an area roughly the size of Singapore.
“We declare that no government shall forcibly implement any project or investment under the guise of development without genuine consent of local communities in Kachin State,” the coalition’s statement emphasized.
Despite the heavy opposition and environmental concerns, Naypyidaw remains steadfast in its push for hydropower.
Regime deputy Soe Win stated in December that hydropower must be prioritized because it is the most cost-effective energy source for the struggling nation, costing 82 MMK ($0.02 USD) per unit—significantly cheaper than solar at 171 MMK, coal at 214 MMK, and natural gas at 235 MMK.
