Irrigation dams threaten Thailand’s tiger forests, say conservationists

A plan to construct seven dams in Thailand’s Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai (DPKY) Forest Complex could cause widespread habitat loss and sever important wildlife corridors, activists warn.

The DPKY Forest Complex is home to one of Thailand’s two remaining breeding Indochinese tiger populations.

Thai authorities have met opposition over the proposals in the past, but claim the dams will help to solve flood and drought problems in nearby regions.

Conservationists warn the plans could jeopardize the forest complex’s World Heritage status, which is due for review this July.

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