Zomi anti-mining group meet Ministers', NMI Ltd. in Tedim.

Tedim, May 17: The members of an anti-uranium mining group, met with Chief Minister Pu Hung Ngai, Minister Pu Van Thawng, Pu Ngun San Aung, Pu Cin Lian Pau, Pu Ning Nai, Pu Nang Za Mung, and Head of Department, along with the executive members from the Chinese NMI Ltd. (Wanbao mining group). On this meeting the Zo communities informed that the Burmese-military-backed Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings and North Mining Investment Co., Ltd (UMEH-NMI) attempt to mislead the people through inducements to carry out mining/fracking in the state. Members of the anti-mining group said the corporation was misleading and trying to deceive the people with various inducements, including development packages. The Centre had offered millions of development package and job opportunities to the local residents, through the UMEH-NMI Ltd. The corporation also offered to construct roads, hospitals, schools and provide drinking water. The group urged the governor to take immediate steps to stop the proposed fracking/mining and communicate its request to the Centre. Member of the anti-mining group, Mr. Thang said, according to statement by Dr. Vumson Suantak on Wednesday, January 14, 2009, nickel and uranium were discovered at Gullu Mual/Mwe Taung Mountain." And asked, "Why did the UMEH-NMI Ltd (Wanbao mining company) maintain silence, when it comes to the term uranium which was found in Gullu Mual?." And continue on saying, "We will do whatever it takes to defend our lands and waters against this threat from UMEH-NMI Ltd (Wanbao mining company)." It added that uranium-nickel mining would have an adverse effect on the health of the people living in Chin State. It also pointed out that many villagers would be displaced before the UMEH-NMI Ltd. starts its activities. In the public hearing, a majority of the people had opposed fracking/mining. Gullu Mual nickel and uranium deposit is located in Tedim (Tiddim) Township, Chin State of Zo indigenous people inhabited land of Asia. Source: Zo National Broadcasting Corporation (an upcoming international News channel for the Zo people)