China’s island cities: Treasure or trouble for Asia? ‘Hidden debt trap’In Colombo, two-thirds of the 665-acre (269-hectare) artificial island located near a deep-sea container port will be given to the Chinese developer on a 99-year lease. In Port City, representatives of the Chinese developer will be part of a “governing body” overlooking investment decisions linked to the artificial island, local media reported. But the projects have raised concerns about coastal erosion, the fate of fishermen and the effects on neighboring cities. In the Philippines, opponents of the proposed man-made island fear it could heighten flood risks and worsen congestion in neighboring Manila.

Source: Manila Bulletin April 25, 2019 07:18 UTC