Staff Correspondent, Dhaka:
Myanmar’s military-backed government is moving to revive the long-delayed Myitsone Hydropower Project, signaling a renewed focus on addressing the country’s energy shortages while reopening longstanding debates over environmental protection, community displacement and foreign investment.
The project, initially valued at $3.6 billion and backed by China, was suspended in 2011 following widespread public opposition. The proposed dam on the confluence of the Mali and Nmai rivers in Kachin State would have an installed capacity of 6 gigawatts, making it one of Southeast Asia’s largest hydropower projects.
According to government officials, the project could help ease Myanmar’s chronic electricity deficit, with authorities estimating it could provide more than half of the country’s projected 10 GW power requirement. The renewed momentum follows President Min Aung Hlaing’s recent visit to China, where energy cooperation reportedly featured in bilateral discussions.
Government representatives have stated that environmental and social concerns are being reassessed, including the potential impacts of flooding, displacement and seismic risks. Officials also indicated that updated engineering technologies could help mitigate some of these challenges.
However, the project continues to face opposition from civil society organizations and local communities. Critics argue that the dam could significantly alter the ecological balance of the region and affect livelihoods, while also questioning the distribution of economic benefits. Earlier project agreements envisaged exporting a substantial share of the generated electricity to China, though it remains unclear whether those terms have been revised.
The financial outlook has also changed. While the project was originally estimated at $3.6 billion in 2009, recent industry estimates suggest total construction costs could exceed $11 billion, reflecting higher global infrastructure costs.
As Myanmar seeks to strengthen its power infrastructure, the future of the Myitsone Dam will likely depend on balancing energy security, environmental sustainability, local stakeholder concerns and international investment interests.
