He requested that projects detrimental to water flow, the environment and the life of local residents must be resolutely removed from the hydropower master plan.
The MOIT was also asked to temporarily halt licensing projects that could have negative impacts on the ecosystem, direct relevant parties to implement reforestation regulations seriously and force the temporary closure of projects that have failed to replace deforested areas with new woodlands.
The Prime Minister also urged the MOIT to work with local authorities to ensure reservoirs follow the approved operating procedures and fine-tune ineffective procedures in order to maximise power generation and minimise negative impacts during the flooding season.
In his message, the prime minister asked the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MONRE) to step up inspecting compliance of environmental rules and reservoir operating procedures carried out by local hydropower plants.
The MONRE has also been tasked with refining sanctions against violators of environmental protection regulations.
The prime minister’s requests were made following the Central Highlands Investment Promotion Conference held on March 11.
The meeting concluded that the region has seen improvements in socio-economic development and infrastructure growth but there remain many issues to be addressed including the negative effects of hydropower plants.
