All asked not to blame China for drying Mekong

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BANGKOK, 24 February 2010 (NNT) – Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has called on all sides not to jump to the conclusion that China has caused the Mekong river to dry, saying that the government is closely monitoring the drought situation.

 

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, the prime minister said the government was dealing with problems concerning water shortages, drought, and other disasters with Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Theera Wongsamut keeping him updated on the overall situation.

 

Deputy Prime Minister Major General Sanan Kajornprasart has been tasked with overseeing the problems since the beginning of this year, together with the agriculture and cooperatives minister.

 

The prime minister said he was more worried about the cultivation of off-season rice in the central part of Thailand.

 

The second rice is much of concern during drought since it needs adequate water supply amid water shortage.

 

China has been blamed for the current water level reduction of Mekong river in Thailand and Laos because it has blocked water in the river for electricity generation. Thai MPs and senators have cried foul over the matter and called for the government to talk with China.

 

thainews.prd.go.th