Mekong dams put millions at risk of hunger

The economic, social and environmental consequences of the construction of dams on the Mekong River could be devastating.

Eleven major dams are propsed on the main stem of the river, affecting Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. The dams would block the migration of freshwater fish and reduce the amount of fish available.

ANU research suggests that millions of people are in danger of going hungry if the dams proceed. Replacing fish as a protein source with alternative food would use more land and water in sensitive environments.