Mae Khong River dries faster than ever before

CHIANG RAI, 16 November 2010 (NNT) – While many areas in the country are still facing severe flooding, most of the people in Chiengrai are greatly concerned over the unusually low water level in the once-mighty Mae Khong River.

Experts said the alarmingly low level of water in the Mae Khong River was caused by the building of a number of dams in China, which has led to a gradual depletion of fish stock downstream, and has made it difficult for boats and ships plying their trades up and down the River.

Locals, both Thai and Laos, who live along the banks of the Mae Khong River, said, compared to the past several years, the River began to dry up earlier this year than ever before. The Mae Khong usually dries up in March or April of every year, whereas its water level has dropped sharply early in November this year.

-- NNT 2010-11-16

Horrible to see this mighty river in this condition. Why are the Chinese able to get away with this? I remember seeing the Menam Khong 25 years ago when it was a free river. What a wonderful sight it was!