Many died, hundreds missing after dam collapse in Laos

ANKARA

Scores of people have reportedly died and hundreds are missing after the collapse of a hydroelectric dam in southeastern Laos.

The collapse released five billion cubic meters of water, said the official Lao News Agency.

The reason for the collapse of the dam in the Attapeu province, which was still under construction, is unknown, it added.

At least six villages were reportedly flooded by the released water, and more than 6,000 people were forced to abandon their homes.

Thongloun Sisoulith, the country's prime minister, cancelled a Cabinet meeting and was headed to see the region.

The dam, which had set for completion next year, is meant mostly to generate electricity for neighboring Thailand.

Local authorities also called for urgent help, especially food and medical supplies, for victims of the collapse.

Reporting by Adem Salvarcioglu:Writing by Faruk Zorlu