Stop work on Lao dam and help victims: groups
Civil society groups in three countries have called for construction to stop on a dam in southern Laos where a major collapse occurred last year, killing more than 70 people and leaving about 5,000 villagers homeless.
The groups say thousands displaced by the disaster at the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy Dam one year ago are still stuck in temporary camps – living hand-to-mouth on meager rations and occasional daily allowances – and they must be helped before the project is completed.
“After surviving the loss of their homes, loved ones and farms, they are traumatized yet again by being denied adequate food, housing and dignity in the camps. Most are unable to return to their homes, and their futures remain highly uncertain,” the groups said in a statement.
Jim Pollard
