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Anchalee Kongrut
Pak Moon dam protesters have asked the
government for 300 million baht to rebuild self-sufficient communities
along the Moon river, after the opening of dam gates reportedly restored
the ecology damaged by the dam's construction.
Cabinet ordered the opening of all eight sluice gates last June and a
one-year study by the University of Ubon Ratchathani.
Various species of fish have reportedly returned to the river while
farmland resurfaced after the reservoir was drained out.
But villagers said they lacked the means to catch the returning fish and
remove Maiyarap Yak, an alien species of shrub plant which has occupied
their fertile farmland.
If approved, the 300 million baht would be used to enable affected
villagers to buy boats and fishing gear, help them set up cattle farms
as well as small businesses such as handicrafts, food processing and
organic farming, said Thongcharoen Srihadhamma, a leading dam protester.
The money would be distributed among 3,000 families in 65 villages along
80km of the Moon river.
The villagers yesterday submitted their proposal to Chaturon Chaisaeng,
the PM's Office minister overseeing energy affairs.
It is expected to be tabled for cabinet consideration by next month.
The government is expected to act in June on the future use of Pak Moon
dam. |
