Townspeople near projected bridge living in fear

Townspeople near projected bridge living in fear

Some 40 households living near the projected second friendship bridge across the river of Maesai between the Thai town that bears its name and Shan State's Tachilek are facing the nightmare of the homes and land being confiscated by their military authorities, reported two Shan social workers in Chiangrai yesterday. 

Foreign minister Surakiart Sathirathai announced in August the agreement that was made between Rangoon and Bangkok of the plan. He held talks again with Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt in Tachilek on 7 October on the construction plans of the bridge, reported The New Light of Myanmar, Rangoon's official bulletin, on 11 October. 

The social workers said the area, once a large paddy field, was confiscated several years ago and sold to the people who are now living there. "Many of them now regret they had ever bought it from the authorities," one said. "They also hope Bangkok might be able to persuade Rangoon to pay compensation to the affected households." 

Sources said there was one 4-storey building and the rest were either 2 or 3-storeyed. 

The bridge is due to be finished within the next year, they said. 

Updated 31 October 2001 

According to the Myanmar Times, (8 Oct) issue, the site is 4 km east of the existing bridge. The cost of $ 1.1 million will be covered by Thailand. Sources said construction had already begun in mid-October and it was due to be opened in April 2002.