Chiang Rai: A Chinese firm hired to conduct a survey for a Mekong River project to improve navigation channels says that construction blasts will be kept to a minimum.
At a public hearing on the project to blast islets and reefs to let large cargo ships enter a narrow 231-kilometre passage of the Mekong River in Myanmar, Thailand and Laos, China's CCCC Second Harbour Consultants said explosives will only be used when necessary.
In Thailand, the survey covers 15 geological points across a 96km stretch of the Mekong that were deemed a hindrance to marine navigation.
While vessels carrying cargo of over 450 tonnes can sail through these areas at some times of year, they cannot do so during the dry season, the firm reported.
According to the firm, which started the survey operations around April, only the islets obstructing the route will be removed and the blasts will stop during fish breeding season.
CCCC Second Harbour Consultants says that the firm will practise methods that inflict the least amount of environmental harm.
People living close to these sites will be notified ahead of the firm's activities.
The project is part of a 2000 agreement signed by Thailand, China, Laos and Myanmar to improve navigation in the Mekong River for ships carrying up to 500 tonnes.
The first phase focusing on letting ships with a 100-tonne capacity pass through was completed, but the second phase to allow for larger vessels has been delayed since 2007.
The scheme provoked concerns from locals and environments fearing that the explosives will destroy the river's ecosystem.
At the public hearing, Chiang Rai governor Narongsak Osottanakorn encouraged the public to speak with authorities about their concerns.
The event was attended by representatives from 60 state agencies and organisations, including local administrative organisations, the Fisheries Department and the Marine Department.
Mr Narongsak noted that among the four countries involved in the project, Thailand stands to benefit the least from the project. He says that up to 90% of water in Chiang Rai flows into the river, with only 10% being kept for use.
He added that Chiang Rai is not in a position to negotiate the issue, explaining that it has already done its part by bringing together all the parties involved to voice their opinions on the project.
"The Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Transport Ministry will have to review and negotiate," he said. "I believe that it will be best for all sides if the public input is presented in an objective manner."