Svay Rieng’s Ambitious Irrigation Initiatives Set to Benefit Over 200,000 Hectares for Agricultural Livelihoods

• 5 January 2024
• Local News
• 1339 Views

In a strategic move to harness the potential of the Mekong River and bolster agricultural productivity, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has successfully initiated two expansive irrigation projects in Svay Rieng province. The combined capacity of the Vaiko Irrigation System and the Dauntoy Irrigation Project exceeds an impressive 200,000 hectares, promising to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of the surrounding provinces. The groundbreaking developments were highlighted in a progress report Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology during by HE Tho Chetha’s site inspection on 3 January 2024.

The Vaiko Irrigation System, a testament to collaboration with the Bank of China CHINA EXIMBANK, unfolded in two transformative phases. Phase 1, spanning 2013 to 2016, covers an extensive area between the southern part of Kampong Cham and the northern part of Prey Veng province. Encompassing,795 000 hectares, this phase supplies irrigation to 108,300 hectares in the rainy season and 270,100 hectares in the dry season.

Phase 2, known as the Kampong Chrey Reservoir, spans the junction of eastern Prey Veng and western Svay Rieng provinces, irrigating 93,100 hectares in the rainy season and 23,300 hectares in the dry season. The multifaceted construction of canals, dams, spillways, pumping stations, and drainage structures signifies a comprehensive effort to optimize water distribution.

Additionally, the Daun Toi Irrigation System, meticulously restored in 2011, has further solidified the region’s agricultural prowess. Covering an area of 7,239 hectares, including both wet and dry paddies, this system has been instrumental in advancing sustainable farming practices.

Minister Tho Chetha, accompanied by HE Peng Pursa, Governor of Svay Rieng Province, inspected the Daun Toay Irrigation System, underscoring the commitment to elevate living standards, foster prosperity, and stimulate national economic growth. These transformative irrigation projects align seamlessly with the Cambodian government’s strategic vision, aiming to harness the Mekong River’s potential to bring about sustainable development.

• Road and Infrastructure