Relocation of people and environmental impact resulting from hydro-electric power projects in Vietnam are being discussed at a seminar held in Hanoi on June 29-30.

The seminar, organised by the Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) and the World Bank, aims to propose measures to minimise impact of hydro-electric power projects on the environment and local people's life, said acting WB Director in Vietnam Alan Coulthart.

A representative of the Ministry of Industry said that the Government, relevant ministries, branches and localities in Vietnam are finding the best way to solve problems relating to the environment and resettlement of people due to the construction of hydro-electric power projects.

Nguyen Du Son, EVN Deputy General Director, stressed that his corporation has paid special attention to the development of sustainable energy sources, including hydro-electric power.

The electricity sector plans to increase the use of hydro-electric power sources from the present capacity of 4,000 MW by 2010, and to 16,000 MW or 85 percent of Vietnam's hydro-electricity potential by 2015.