Ending the Flood Legacy: Choeung Ek Canal Project Set to Shield Southern Phnom Penh

• 25 January 2026
• Local News
• 978 Views

High-tech pumping stations and extensive drainage networks reach near completion as Cambodia accelerates its strategic multi-step water diversion master plan

Phnom Penh is on the verge of a significant environmental milestone as the Choeung Ek main canal system enters its final stages of construction. On January 20, 2026, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology Thor Chetha led a direct inspection of the site, confirming that the critical infrastructure in the Kamboul and Dangkor districts is now nearly one hundred percent complete. This project is a cornerstone of the Royal Government’s broader strategy to permanently resolve the seasonal flooding that has historically plagued the southern corridor of the capital.

The Choeung Ek sub-project serves as a vital artery within the national water release and diversion master plan, which is being implemented across several strategic steps. The primary focus of this phase includes the construction of three major pumping stations and the restoration of key canal segments designed to channel excess rainwater away from residential areas. By modernizing these systems, the government aims to reduce the time it takes for floodwaters to recede from over twelve hours to less than two hours, significantly protecting the livelihoods of local communities.

Minister Thor Chetha highlighted that these achievements are part of a larger effort involving the restoration of approximately two hundred and sixty kilometers of streams and canals across four provinces, including Kandal and Kampong Speu. The integration of these waterways allows for the controlled diversion of the Prek Tnaot River, ensuring that the capital remains resilient even during periods of extreme rainfall. This proactive approach not only mitigates flood risks but also enhances agricultural productivity in surrounding regions by improving irrigation capabilities. (read more)

As the project nears full operational status, the Ministry continues to emphasize the importance of community cooperation in maintaining the new infrastructure. Officials noted that keeping drainage paths free of solid waste is essential for the long-term efficiency of the pumping stations. With the Choeung Ek canal system ready to enter service, Phnom Penh is transforming its relationship with the rainy season, moving toward a future where urban development and water management work in harmony to ensure safety and stability for all citizens.

• water infrastructure
• irrigation
• MOWRAM
• Flooding Canal
• drainage
• pumping station