PHNOM PENH, August 19, 2024 — Restoration efforts are underway on an ancient drainage system featuring a sculpted head at Teuk Muk dam, situated approximately 3 kilometers from the Beng Mealea temple in Teuk Lech village, Boeung Mealea commune, Svay district, Siem Reap province.

The APSARA Authority's Department of Temple Preservation and Archaeology has initiated the project to repair the severely damaged structure. Historically, this intricate system was engineered by the Khmer ancestors to channel water from Phnom Kulen. The water was directed through a dragon's mouth sculpture, cascading into O Thmor Dap before continuing its flow towards the Beng Mealea temple's basin and onward into Veal Phtei, a significant reservoir east of the temple.

The restoration project aims to preserve this integral piece of Cambodia's cultural heritage, ensuring the continued appreciation of its ancient water management innovations.