Rainfall Revives Crops in Battambang's Moung Russey District, Offering Hope to Farmers

A significant rainfall on September 14 in Moung Russey District, Battambang Province, has revived agricultural crops that were suffering from drought, bringing renewed hope for farmers. The rain has provided ample water to the fields, ensuring sufficient moisture for crops in their growth stages. Farmers are now anticipating favorable yields during the harvest season. According to farmers in Kia village, the prolonged dry spell did not cause severe damage to the rice crops, but it had weakened their growth. While some rain fell between September 13 and 14, it was only enough to moisten the soil. However, the substantial rain on September 15 has ensured enough water to revive the crops. Farmers noted that while the long drought had impacted rice, mixed crops, and industrial crops, many of them, along with rice, were still growing. They expressed relief as the September 14 rainfall filled the fields with water. One farmer shared, "I thought my two hectares of rice would yield nothing this year, but now I have hope. It rained before, but it only slightly moistened the soil." In Moung Russey District, climate change has affected approximately 32,978 hectares of rice cultivation across six communes: Russey Krang, Prey Svay, Kia, Moung, Chhrey, and Mongkul. Kia village has a high concentration of rice farmers among these six communes. Agricultural officials in Moung Russey District stated that while crops in Kia village suffered significant damage, the rainfall on September 14 has shown signs of recovery. Officials are hopeful for continued rainfall. As of September 8, due to climatic factors, 32,978 hectares of farmland in Moung Russey District had been affected. However, the recent rainfall has led to a significant recovery in many areas.