The Laos government has been sharply rebuked by regional governments and environmentalists for ignoring their concerns and pressing ahead with plans to construct yet another dam on the Mekong River. In southern Laos’ Don Det, local communities share many of those concerns, but not everybody is against the dam at nearby Don Sahong.
The Don Sahong Area
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A fisherman casts his net near Don Sahong. The Laos government is planning a $600 million dam for the area but has been reluctant to reveal details surrounding the proposal and the impact it will have on fish migration and fish stocks. (Luke Hunt for VOA
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Sunset over the Mekong River from Don Khone where many locals fear they might be displaced if the dam at nearby Don Sahong goes ahead. (Luke Hunt for VOA News)
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Fishermen prepare to launch from Don Khone. The Laos government is planning a $600 million dam for the area but has been reluctant to reveal details surrounding the proposal and the impact it will have on fish migration and fish stocks. (Luke Hunt for VOA
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Tourists photograph Khone Falls. Scientists are calling for more studies to be made on a proposed dam in Four Thousand Islands and the impact it will have on the local environment which includes the spectacular Khone Falls. (Luke Hunt for VOA News)
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Irrawaddy dolphin spotting has become a treat for tourists. The break in the water in this photo is a dolphin. Environmentalists fear for the dolphins future, warning that damage to fish stocks and water fluctuation caused by the dam could further harm th