Phnom Penh Authorities Prioritize Drainage System Rehabilitation Ahead of Rainy Season

Phnom Penh capital authorities are prioritizing the rehabilitation of canals and drainage systems, particularly in Tuol Kork district, to mitigate flood damage during the upcoming rainy season. This initiative follows similar work undertaken in Don Penh, Chamkar Mon, and 7 Makara districts, which involved restoring drainage systems, canals, and constructing pumping stations. The rehabilitation of these drainage systems and canals is part of a broader flood mitigation plan aimed at preventing the inundation of homes and infrastructure during the monsoon. Specifically, on August 5th, under the direct supervision of Phnom Penh Deputy Governor Ek KhunDorn, teams commenced priority rehabilitation work on multiple canals and drainage systems within Tuol Kork district. According to Deputy Governor Ek KhunDorn, the restoration in Tuol Kork district includes three canals with a total length of 2,760 meters. This encompasses the Boeng Salang Canal (920 meters) in Boeng Salang commune, the Tuol Kork Station 1 Reservoir Canal (1,100 meters) in Boeung Kak II commune, and the Tuol Kork Station 2 Reservoir Canal (740 meters) in Boeung Kak I commune. Additionally, the project involves rehabilitating drainage systems along various roads, with lengths ranging from 1,040 meters to 3,600 meters. Deputy Governor Ek KhunDorn stated that 13 vehicles have been deployed, with teams working concurrently. Following instructions from the Governor of Phnom Penh, authorities in the five central districts are collaborating with the Department of Public Works and Transport of Phnom Penh to pump, clear sludge from, and restore drainage systems in preparation for the rainy season. To date, drainage system rehabilitation has been completed in three districts: Don Penh, Chamkar Mon, and 7 Makara. Furthermore, the Deputy Governor urged district and commune authorities to inspect locations highly susceptible to flooding, ensuring that the work targets these critical areas. He also emphasized the need to connect smaller drainage pipes to the main systems to facilitate water flow and guarantee the prevention of rainwater flooding this season. The Deputy Governor also appealed to citizens to properly dispose of their waste to maintain hygiene and a clean environment, which will help prevent flooding and enhance the aesthetic appeal of Phnom Penh.