US Study Insists China’s Dams to Blame for Mekong Drought
China’s massive dams on the Mekong River exacerbated last year’s extreme drought in downstream countries including Thailand, researchers from a US government-funded study said on Wednesday.
The researchers discuss the findings – originally published by American research company Eyes on Earth Inc. – in a video conference organized by the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok. The team said China’s dams controlled and restricted the water flow in the Mekong, leading to a disaster felt in Thailand.
Although Chinese officials slam the paper as politically-motivated, the researchers said they have no ill intention towards China. Brian Eyler, Southeast Asia director of the Washington-based Stimson Center said the study aims to provide scientifically-proven evidence for a constructive discussion about the river.
Khaosod English
