Ian Porter, World Bank country representative for the Lao PDR, expresses satisfaction with the progress of the Nam Theun 2 Dam construction, saying the major works are proceeding according to planned targets.
However, he is concerned with the delay in evacuating the villagers affected by the project. NT2 developpers are looking for new lands to relocate the villagers to, because the previously chosen areas turned out to be unsuitable for farming or even dwelling because of contaminated water and lands. Nevertheless, they are confident they will be able to relocate the villagers by 2008 as planned.
NT2 investors hope to export 995 megawatts of electricity to Thailand by 2010.
Listen to our Laos Today report for further details.