Reported by Phyu Nu Translated and Edited by Win Htut + MYA
It is in Dawei of Taninthayi Region that deforestation is on the increase. As a result, there have been changes in waterways of Taninthayi area, it was learnt.
“Certain amount of timber has been extracted from the forests in the northern part of Dawei. Such extraction of timber results in changes of watercourse of rivers of Taninthayi. Taninthayi River is situated in Taninthayi Region. It is naturally precious. Local people have to rely on this river and grow crops with the use of water from this river. Fish are abundant in this river. It is also a source of transportation and communication. Crabs and prawns are also plentiful. However, the water level of Taninthayi River has become lower as the timber is excessively extracted from the forest,” Project Officer U Tin Than of WWF International from Thailand.
Good quality forests are still left in Taninthayi in the southern part of Myanmar and therefore, it is a region that should be conserved, it was learnt.
Dawei deep seaport and its related projects are being implemented in Taninthayi Region and therefore, deforestation and extraction of timber are also seen. In addition, illegal timber extraction is being carried out in this region. Farmlands are being reclaimed to cultivate rubber and oil palm in this region. In comparison with other regions, timber forests and environmental conditions are favorable in Taninthayi but it is in a state of deforestation, it was learnt.
Deforestation causes soil erosion due to rain falls. In addition, deforestation makes the soil lose its energy. As a result, the earth slide down into the river and creeks, and causes changes in watercourse of river. At such, the river and creek have become shallow and have silted up.
The occurrences of changes in course of river and of silting up are seen in Ayeyawady River and Chindwin River. Similarly, other small rivers are facing similar conditions due to soil erosion and deforestation during this year, it was learnt.
“Taninthayi River has become shallow. At such a time, nearby villagers are worried about whether the water in Taninthayi River is enough or not for cultivation. If the trees on the hill are cut, the soil will damage. At that time, if it rains, the landslide will occur. Now, the river has become shallow and silted up. It will be better if the government designates as reserve forest areas in Taninthayi Region,” reviewed U Tin Than.
