New Irrigation System to Boost Agricultural Productivity in Kampong Thom, Cambodia

A new irrigation system, approximately 20 kilometers long, is planned for construction in Stung district, Kampong Thom province, Cambodia, aiming to expand irrigation and enhance agricultural productivity. The project is being advanced under the guidance of H.E. Tha Chekda, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology and Head of the Working Group for Stung District, and H.E. Chan Sinat, Head of the Working Group for Chun Orlou Commune. Technical experts from relevant ministries and agencies, in collaboration with local authorities, conducted an on-site study on August 7, 2026, to prepare for the construction of additional irrigation systems for irrigation and water drainage in the area. The planned main irrigation canal will originate from the second main canal of the "30 September" Reservoir, passing through Preah Damrei, Rong Reung, Chun Orlou, and Chun Krom communes, spanning approximately 20 kilometers. Numerous branch canals (Chun Kveub) and related hydraulic structures will also be constructed. Say Kim Lam, Governor of Stung District, stated that the approximately 20-kilometer main canal, along with many kilometers of branch canals, will become a crucial infrastructure for boosting agricultural productivity and encouraging farmers' cultivation activities. This system is also expected to contribute to increasing rice yields and improving the living standards of local residents. H.E. Tha Chekda mentioned that the construction of this new irrigation system will take shape in the near future, following the completion of detailed on-site studies and assessments. Specifically, the many kilometers of branch canals within Chun Orlou Commune will help expand the capacity to deliver water to areas where the existing irrigation system has not yet reached farmers' rice fields. Meanwhile, residents in Chun Orlou Commune have expressed strong satisfaction with the new irrigation system project, anticipating numerous benefits for the community. These include more efficient irrigation water supply and, crucially, a contribution to floodwater drainage to reduce inundation of homes and residences in the area. The project is expected to serve as a significant driving force for the development of the agricultural sector, water resource management, and the improvement of living standards for the people in Stung district, Kampong Thom province. By: Sum Vanna © All rights reserved by National News Agency of Cambodia 2018