Cambodia Establishes Expert Teams for 9 Key Reservoirs to Strengthen Irrigation Management

Cambodia is strengthening the management of its key irrigation infrastructure, with the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology (MWRAM) spearheading the initiative. On July 17, 2026, Minister Thao Cheththa led an internal meeting to establish specialized working groups responsible for coordinating the management of nine major reservoirs and their associated irrigation systems. The nine key reservoirs designated for enhanced management include: Ta Sal Reservoir in Kampong Speu Province; Dam Nos. 3 and 5 Reservoirs in Pursat Province; Kampin Puy Reservoir, Battambang Multipurpose Reservoir, and Doung Trei Reservoir in Battambang Province; Trapeang Thum Reservoir in Banteay Meanchei Province; Stueng Chreng 1 and 2 Reservoirs in Udor Mean Chey Province; Rok Reservoir in Preah Vihear Province; and Stueng Chinit Reservoir in Kampong Thom Province. The coordination teams will comprise members from the Department of Agricultural Irrigation, the Department of Engineering, the Department of Water Resources Management and Conservation, and the Department of Farmer Water User Communities, all under the Technical General Directorate of the MWRAM. These specialized teams will be tasked with developing action plans for management, monitoring, supervision, and promoting preventative measures against any encroachments on the reservoirs and irrigation systems. The objective is to ensure the safety, aesthetic appeal, and sustainability of these vital water management assets.