Phnm Penh: On Monday morning, July 29, 2024, Mr. Tho Chetha, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology, led an inspection of the water conditions in various canals at Techo International Airport and throughout Kandal Province.

During the inspection, the team reviewed the status of canals 94 and 96, Prek Hoor, Prek Kong, and other waterways in the vicinity of Techo International Airport, Takhmao City, Kandal Province.

Minister Tho Chetha identified several factors contributing to the slow flow of water in the canals. The primary issue stemmed from Prek Yeay Chea, where only one of two ports was operational, with the other blocked pending policy resolution. Additionally, the end of the Prek Ho canal had not been restored due to ongoing impact assessments.

Despite these challenges, the Minister noted that water flow in Canal 96 was relatively fast. In the Prek Thi area, the water moved swiftly towards Tonle Bassac, resulting in a decrease in water levels from 5.05 meters to 4.95 meters.

Minister Tho Chetha emphasized that last year, water flowed more freely into the Techo International Airport area. Currently, however, water accumulation in the river is problematic, and without further rainfall, water levels are expected to continue receding.

In response to the water situation, and with the approval of the Kandal Provincial Authority, Minister Tho Chetha ordered the removal of a dam at Canal 94, creating a breach of 10-20 meters. Additionally, the dam at Canal 54 in Saang District, Kandal Province, near the three new airports, was also breached, with an opening of at least 30 meters to temporarily alleviate water accumulation.