Myitsone Report: Investigation Commission Submitted To President

Investigation Commission for Ayeyawaddy-Myitsone Upstream River Basin Hydropower Projects submitted its first report to President U Htin Kyaw on November 10.

The report covers the status of Myitsone hydropower project, Chipwinge hydropower dam and Chipwinge power plant as well as some villages within the area of Myitsone project. 

It was compiled during the three-month survey period by the Commission members through meetings with local authorities, CSOs and local people. 

The report was compiled based on hydropower sources available in Myanmar for electricity production and electricity requirement, the formation of the Ayeyawaddy-Myitsone upstream river basin hydropower projects, and contracts and agreements connecting with the Myitsone hydropower project.

The commission said they will continue to conduct further interviews with the locals and concerned officials, and the final report will be submitted to the President after accomplishing assessment on cost and benefit upon socio-environment. 

The 20-member commission, led by U Thi Khun Myat, deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, was formed by the President's Office on August 12.

The Commission was tasked to reassess the China-invested Myitsone hydropower project that has been suspended by the previous government in September 2011.