Myanmar’s lawless mining blamed for dangerous pollution in Mekong River
Summary
Pollution in the Mekong River, linked to unregulated mining in Myanmar, poses risks to local communities. Fishermen in Laos report catching fewer fish due to fluctuating water levels and pollution traced to mines upriver. Arsenic and other harmful metals have been found in the river, exceeding safe levels.Key Facts
- Fishermen in Laos, like Khon, face challenges due to changing water levels and pollution in the Mekong River.
- Pollution is believed to stem from unregulated mines in Myanmar's Shan State.
- Arsenic and other heavy metals have been detected in tributaries feeding into the Mekong.
- The level of arsenic has surpassed the safety limits set by the World Health Organization.
- The pollution issue has reached the Thai-Lao border, as reported by Thailand’s Pollution Control Department.
- Myanmar's Shan State has seen a rise in mines related to gold and rare earth extraction.
- The region is experiencing lawlessness amid Myanmar's civil war, with ethnic groups controlling the area.
- The situation requires urgent intervention from governments to address regional public health risks.
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