By Su Yee / MPA
YANGON – The National Unity Government (NUG) of Myanmar has issued a stern warning against the military junta’s attempts to revive the controversial Myitsone Dam project, describing the move as “sacrificing the heart of the nation” to secure its political survival.
In a public address to the international community on Monday, U Nay Phone Latt, spokesperson for the NUG Prime Minister’s Office, claimed the military council plans to restart the multi-billion dollar hydropower project immediately following its proposed “sham” elections.
A Threat to the Ayeyarwady
The Myitsone project, located at the confluence of two rivers that form the Ayeyarwady, has long been a flashpoint for nationalistic sentiment and environmental concerns in Myanmar. The NUG official emphasized that the environmental fallout would be irreversible.
“If the dam stops the flow of vital sediment, the soil fertility of the Ayeyarwady Delta—the country’s rice bowl—will be destroyed,” U Nay Phone Latt warned. “The resulting imbalance in water pressure will allow seawater to seep inland, rendering the entire delta uncultivable.”
He further highlighted the geological risks, noting the site’s proximity to the Sagaing Fault line. A potential dam failure, he argued, could submerge major cities in Kachin State within minutes.
Legal and Diplomatic Warnings
The NUG, which views the military junta as an illegal terrorist organization, reiterated its stance that the generals have no legal mandate to sell the country’s natural resources or enter into international treaties.
Investment Risk: The NUG warned that any economic contracts signed with the military council are legally void.
Liability: Investors and the junta will be held solely responsible for any financial losses or damages resulting from such agreements.A Global Call to Action
Labeling the revival of the dam as a “Global Issue,” the NUG urged the international community to intervene. They argued that the destruction of the Ayeyarwady’s ecosystem would not only devastate Myanmar but also have significant ecological repercussions for the wider region.
“We will listen to the voice of the people and work tirelessly with our revolutionary allies to ensure the Ayeyarwady River flows freely forever,” U Nay Phone Latt concluded.
The Myitsone Dam, largely funded by Chinese investment, was suspended in 2011 by then-President Thein Sein following widespread public protests. Its potential revival under the current military regime is expected to ignite fresh resistance across the conflict-torn nation.
