Introduction
The communities of San José de las Matas (Sajoma) and Jánico need to be vigilant regarding Park Vida and its possible involvement in the Las Placetas Hydroelectric Project. Recently, Juan de Dios Collado questioned one of the owners of Park Vida, who mentioned their interest in the dam project in Matagrande, noting that the creation of a lake on their property would be beneficial. While we are not alleging anything concrete, there are reasons for concern.
Involvement of Park Vida
Park Vida, formerly known as Montana Mining Corp., has a history in the mining industry. Despite their current presentation as eco-friendly developers, their interest in the Las Placetas Hydroelectric Project raises suspicions. The company has acquired significant land in protected areas, which raises questions about their true intentions.
Concerns about EGEHID and Suspicious Methods
The Las Placetas Hydroelectric Project, led by EGEHID in collaboration with Andrade Gutierrez, has been criticized for its potential environmental and community impacts. Licenses for this project have been obtained through suspicious procedures by the Ministry of Environment, with rumors of large-scale bribery. The lack of community consultations and environmental impact studies heightens concerns about the transparency and true intentions behind the project (Power Technology) (Dam Watch International).
Impact on Serrano Communities
The communities of Sajoma and Jánico need to be aware of the possible negative impacts of the hydroelectric project. Historically, promises of potable water and electricity for local communities have not been fulfilled. Instead, benefits tend to be directed to more distant areas, leaving local communities with negative consequences. The construction of the dam could exacerbate deforestation, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss, in addition to increasing health risks from the stagnation of reservoir waters (Dam Watch International).
International Experiences with Canadian Companies
There are precedents where Canadian companies have acquired land in developing countries under the guise of sustainable development, only to later engage in mining activities that harm the environment and health of local communities. For example, Ivanhoe Mines was accused of human rights abuses and forced evictions in the Democratic Republic of Congo to expand a copper mine (Amnesty International Canada). Similarly, Nevsun Resources faced lawsuits for abuses in Eritrea, including forced labor and torture (Amnesty International Canada), and Goldcorp was accused of contaminating water resources and damaging health in communities in Guatemala (Amnesty International Canada).
Conclusion
The Las Placetas Hydroelectric Project promises significant energy benefits, but serrano communities must remain vigilant. The potential environmental damage and history of unfulfilled promises must be carefully considered. Active participation in community consultations and demanding transparency are essential to protect local interests.
Call to Action
For more information and to participate in community efforts to monitor this project, contact Juan de Dios en la Tierra in alliance with local environmental groups and community leaders. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all Serranos.
Juan de Dios en la TierraAugust 2024
Sources:
Amnesty International on Ivanhoe Mines in DRC
Amnesty International on Nevsun Resources in Eritrea
Goldcorp in Guatemala
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