The development of the Mekong’s water resources have included the establishment of a number of large dams, on both the river’s main stem and tributaries, in all four member countries. These dams were constructed for a variety of purposes, including flood protection, irrigation and hydropower. These dams have been controversial, due to their negative effects on natural and social environments—to the extent that some member countries, such as Thailand, have ceased building dams altogether.

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