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Laos’ Thirst For Mekong River Dams Imperils Region’s Fishing and Farming
August 16th, 2016
Courtesy of the Washington Post, a look at Laos’ desire for more Mekong River dams impacts its regional neighbors: Dismissing its neighbors’ pleas, impoverished Laos is rapidly building a Mekong River dam that threatens fisheries crucial to millions of Southeast Asia’s poorest people. The site of the Don Sahong dam, less than 2 kilometers (1 […]
Read more »Dams, Drought and Disaster Along the Mekong River
May 11th, 2016
Via IRIN News, a report on the water challenges facing the nations and communities along the Mekong River: The dry months before the monsoon rains arrive are often tough for Cambodian fishermen and farmers. But with rivers drying up and drinking water running out, conditions have rarely been as bad as they are now. The […]
Read more »The Thirsty Dragon: China Seeks To Build Rapport Downstream
April 13th, 2016
Via Future Directions International, a report on China’s recent release of water from some of its Mekong dams: Much of South-East Asia is experiencing exceptionally dry conditions. For parts of the region, the dry season typically runs between January and September and it is not unusual for there to be lower water availability. The current […]
Read more »The Politics Of The Mekong River
April 11th, 2016
Courtesy of STRATFOR (subscription required), a detailed look at the politics of the Mekong River: In times of scarcity, nations compete more fiercely to meet their essential needs and defend precious commodities. Water is no exception, particularly the water of the Mekong River of mainland Southeast Asia. Mekong translates to “mother of rivers,” and the river […]
Read more »The Thirsty Dragon: China’s Release Of Mekong Waters Reflects An Environmental Crisis
March 24th, 2016
Via Eurasia Review, a report on growing controversy over China’s release of Mekong River waters from its dams in March: Tributaries of the Mekong River. China would like to project the release of Mekong River waters from its dams in March to “assist” drought-stricken farmers and fisheries further downstream, especially in Vietnam, as a magnanimous gesture […]
Read more »Thailand: Drought and Potential Implications of Alternative Water-Sourcing
February 10th, 2016
Via Future Directions International, an interesting look at Thailand’s efforts to secure new water sources to meet demand over the dry season: Background The El Niño weather phenomenon is having major ramifications for South-East Asia, particularly in Thailand, which is experiencing significant water shortages over the dry season. Farmers have been told to grow less water-intensive […]
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