International Rivers expresses its concern and regret about the loss of life and struggle in having to face the communities living downstream of the collapsed dam in Lao PDR. A dam that was part of the ‘Xepian-Xe Nam Noy’ hydropower scheme on the Xepian River collapsed the night of July 23 as heavy rains topped the dam. Communities living downstream were told to evacuate the area only hours before the dam collapsed. Initial reports indicate that 6,600 families have been displaced, losing their homes and property, while many were killed or remain missing.
During discussions we held with communities during the preparatory stages of the ‘Xepian-Xe Nam Noy’ project in 2013, villagers took the strong position that before the dam was built, the project developers must meaningfully consult them and listen to their concerns. Like many other projects in Laos and the region, this did not happen. Many of the people affected by the current dam collapse have already suffered other impacts due to dam construction. This tragedy has raised their suffering.
Majority of the dams, both in construction and those already designed were not able to cope with extreme weather events. Unpredictable and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change and pollution.
The tragedy in Lao PDR also reveals the lack of warning systems to prevent loss of life. Communities were not given sufficient warning to ensure their safety and their families. This event raises major questions about dam standards and dam safety in Laos, including their appropriateness to deal with weather conditions and risks.
There is an severe need for clarity on roles, responsibilities and accountability for managing to communicate with the residents in regards to critical situations such as floods and droughts – factors that are uncontrollable but can be avoided if measures are taken. This includes how communications with stakeholders especially communities downstream – should be undertaken.
> Iimaan Awed
Flood Victims Escape Their Homes In Attapeu Province, Laos.
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