Myanmar's new military-backed government plans to revive the controversial China-backed Myitsone dam project, expecting completion within roughly eight years. This $3.6 billion project, located in Kachin State at the confluence of the Mali and N’Mai rivers, was suspended in 2011 due to widespread public opposition. Concerns centered on significant environmental and social impacts, alongside reports that 90 percent of the generated electricity would be exported to China.
Khet Htein Nan, the chief minister of Kachin State, who previously opposed the dam, has since January led public meetings urging local support, expressing regret for his past opposition. Htet Paing Htoo, a Kachin State parliament member, confirmed to Reuters that work would "begin shortly," stating the president has already declared its restart. The chief minister also accompanied Min Aung Hlaing on a recent state visit to China, where the dam's resumption was reportedly discussed, highlighting China's strong push for the project's continuation.
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