Vietnam approves controversial dam

The Vietnamese National Assembly has approved a controversial scheme for a hydroelectric power plant in the northern province of Son La.

But it called for further study before deciding the scale of the project.

During the debate, deputies expressed concerns about the safety of the plant, which would be in an earthquake zone, as well as over its cost and the effect on local residents.

The most ambitious plan has been priced at about $4bn.

It would mean flooding some 45,000 hectares and resettling more than 100,000 people.

Correspondents say such a large displacement of people would deter most donor countries and agencies from providing funding.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service