Cambodia Governor Inspects Eroded Riverbanks, Pledges Reconstruction

In Ruessey Sok commune, Srey Sothorn district, Kampong Cham province, Governor Oun Chanda inspected an area severely affected by riverbank erosion on the morning of September 13, 2026. The erosion, caused by strong currents from Koh Kandal island directly impacting the location, has led to the relocation of several residences to safer areas. The provincial authorities have pledged to the affected residents that they will repair the riverbanks once the water levels recede, to prevent further damage to other homes. Ms. Seng Sreymom, a 65-year-old resident of Ruessey Sok village, stated that she has lived in the village since birth. Previously, the riverbank was approximately 500 to 600 meters from her home. However, due to natural erosion during the rainy season over many years, the river has encroached closer to her house, causing significant worry. Ms. Mom further described her distress, saying she experienced sleepless nights and loss of appetite due to the fear of her two wooden houses collapsing into the river. Local authorities intervened by helping to dismantle her houses, a process that took a week and was completed by the morning of September 13, 2026, leaving only the stone steps in front of the former residence. Household items were moved by neighbors and authorities to a temporary shelter about 100 meters behind the old house. She expressed sadness over the loss of over 500 meters of village land due to erosion, which has forced many villagers to relocate and some to leave their hometowns for other provinces. What was once home to hundreds of families has dwindled significantly. During his inspection, Governor Oun Chanda announced that with the attention of the provincial authorities, relevant agencies, and the approval of the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, repairs to the riverbanks will commence in 2027 after the dry season. The plan includes reinforcing 600 meters of riverbank with giant sandbags in Ruessey Sok commune, as well as in Preah Andoung commune, Stueng Trang district, and Kang Meas district, to prevent further erosion and damage to homes and schools. Rights Reserved: Phnom Pros Phnom Srey