Chinese Mega-project Questioned

• 25 July 2017
• Construction Focus
• 1230 Views

A Chinese mega-development in Myanmar is under the spotlight for its impact on the environment.The USD10 billion Kyauk Pyu Special Economic Zone development on the Myanmar coast in the northwestern state of Rakhine includes a 770km pipeline which pumps oil across Myanmar to southwest China as part of the ‘One Belt, One Road’ (OBOR) initiative.The SEZ will eventually cover more than 17sq km and include a USD7.3 billion deep sea port and a USD2.3 billion industrial park, with plans to attract industries such as textiles and oil refining.However, local citizens, especially fisherman who are now barred from fishing near the pipeline, are increasingly protesting against a lack of consultation, transparent planning and fears over damage to the environment.