China's latest power project is facing significant opposition in Thailand and Burma. To support its growing industrial needs, China plans to build 13 hydroelectric dams on the Nu River. This project is akin to China's developments on the Yangtze and Mekong rivers.

The Nu River, originating in the Tibetan mountains, flows into Burma and along the Thai border, where it is known as the Salween River. The Salween River basin, home to numerous Thai-Karen communities, is vital for their livelihood and the surrounding ecosystem.

Environmental campaigners argue that the project will devastate these communities and the last free-flowing international river in the region. The river flows through a national park and wildlife sanctuary in Thailand, which they fear will be disrupted by the dams.

Chinarong Sretthachau, Director of the South East Asia Rivers Network (SEARIN), based in Chiang Mai, emphasized the loss of aquatic biodiversity and downstream fisheries due to large dams. A 2000 report by the World Commission on Dams supports these concerns.

However, some prioritize economic growth over environmental concerns. Ian Fells, chairman of the New and Renewable Energy Centre in the UK, and adviser to the World Energy Council, stressed the necessity of electricity for industrial development. China's economy, growing at 8-10% annually, faces an energy shortage that the 20,000 megawatts from the Nu-Salween project could alleviate.

Despite China's promise to assess the environmental impact within its borders, it has not addressed the downstream effects. Late last year, SEARIN and 82 other Thai and Burmese groups sent a letter to the Chinese ambassador in Bangkok, urging Beijing to consult with local communities.

Thailand, meanwhile, has its own plans for the Salween River, proposing two dams along its stretch and financing another in Burma's Shan state. This has also sparked outrage, with opponents arguing that Thailand's 40% surplus electricity supply negates the need for additional dams.

The International Rivers Network (IRN), based in California, monitors these projects, expressing concerns about human rights violations and environmental degradation. The Tasang Dam in Burma, for instance, threatens local communities and one of the best teak forests in the region.

Proponents of hydroelectric power argue it is a cleaner energy source that reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Ian Fells noted that China aims to reduce coal-based power to lessen pollution.

Despite the controversies, the Beijing government views hydroelectricity as essential for its expanding economy, as evidenced by power failures in 16 out of China's 31 provinces last summer.