Svay Rieng– On the morning of Thursday, July 4, 2024, Thor Chetha, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology, along with ministry leaders, technical officers, and Peng Pursa, Governor of Svay Rieng Province, conducted an inspection of the ongoing Irrigation and Flood Protection Expansion Project for the Prek O Damrey Cross-Prek Thmey irrigation system in Kampong Ror District, Svay Rieng Province.

Located in the border area of Cambodia-Vietnam, this project spans Thmey commune, Reach Mondir commune, and Banteay Kraing commune. As of now, the project has achieved approximately 20% completion.

Minister Tho Chetha emphasized that the development of the Prek O Damrey Cross-Prek Thmey irrigation system is crucial for increasing water resources, ensuring water security for local irrigation year-round, and preventing floods. The project also aims to provide a continuous water supply for daily use beyond the immediate project area.

He highlighted the additional benefits of the project, noting that the rehabilitated canals and natural streams will serve as effective transportation routes for agricultural goods, both by land and water. The project also aims to strengthen resilience to climate change, maintain environmental stability, and promote ecosystem health, ultimately supporting economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving living standards for people along the Cambodia-Vietnam border.

The project, scheduled to be completed within 12 months from June 2024 to June 2025, is expected to increase the irrigated area to approximately 16,200 hectares, benefiting around 3,727 families.

This ambitious initiative reflects the Cambodian government's commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability while improving the livelihoods of rural communities.