Resettlement of Population Following the Dam Construction :- The Case of Srinagarind Dam, Kanchanaburi

Abstract

The construction of dam for the purpose of producing hydroelectric power is the measure to be used by most countries to solve their energy crisis and for the well being of their citizen. Meanwhile, it was found that, in some cases, the loss due to resettlement of the population is overwhelming the benefit from the construction. In the case of Srinagarind Dam at Kanchanaburi, the researcher found that the cash benefit-cost ratio was 1.22, from economic point of view, the project should be carried on, When include non-cash benefit and cost, the analysis showed similar result. However, when consider resettlement of the population, it was found that household income declined eventhough population received better public utilities and services than when they were in the former location. Criticism and recommendations of the researcher was useful from socio-economic stand point and they should be taken into account prior to the construction of the further dams.