MEDAN, Indonesia — Environmentalists lost a court challenge Monday to a Chinese-backed dam in Indonesia that will rip through the habitat of the most critically endangered orangutan species. The state administrative court in North Sumatra’s capital, Medan, ruled that construction can continue despite critics of the 510-megawatt hydro dam providing evidence that its environmental impact assessment was deeply flawed. Scientists announced the discovery of a third orangutan species, Pongo tapanuliensis, in November after DNA analysis and field study revealed unique characteristics. The species is found only in the Batang Toru forest, where the dam will be built. Critics of the project say it’s part of China’s “Belt and Road” plans to carpet Asia with Chinese-financed infrastructure and extend its economic and political influence.

Source: Washington Post March 04, 2019 08:24 UTC