Mekong in Tibet and China

This program explores the ways of life of the people who live near the Mekong s banks in Tibet and southwestern China. Tibetan shepherds; Chinese fishermen, farmers, and traders; the Bai people, of the ancient kingdom of Dali; and the Dai people, called "The Free," go about their business as they discuss their concerns about the overcutting of timber, water pollution, and the impact of 14 proposed dams. Local economies, which range from tea growing and rubber harvesting to tourism and shipping, are also explored, along with topics of history, such as the Silk Road; customs, including the binding of feet; and religion. (52 minutes