Battambang Province Addresses Severe Drought Impact on Rice Cultivation

A meeting was held in Battambang Province, western Cambodia, to discuss the impact of a severe drought on rice cultivation. Battambang is one of Cambodia's key rice-producing regions, and the current drought poses a significant threat to farmers' livelihoods. Ukk Knuch, Vice Chairman of the National Committee for Disaster Management, and Sok Lou, Governor of Battambang Province, attended the meeting. Governor Sok Lou reported that out of the planned 456,000 hectares for rice cultivation in the province, over 310,000 hectares have been planted. However, approximately 130,000 hectares have been affected by the drought. Over 70,000 hectares have already received relief measures, with ongoing efforts to provide further assistance. The governor instructed district authorities and relevant departments to accurately assess the damage to rice crops and to implement recovery support measures, such as distributing seeds, as appropriate to the situation. He emphasized that under the guidance of the National Committee for Disaster Management, the provincial government has been monitoring weather patterns and water levels, operating irrigation pumps, managing water resources efficiently, and promoting effective water usage and climate-appropriate agricultural techniques among farmers. Vice Chairman Ukk Knuch directed the provincial administration and relevant departments to gather precise data on the damage and to implement rice rescue measures, especially in areas where water intervention is possible. He highly commended the efforts of the provincial government, line ministries, and local authorities for their dedication in distributing water to farmers to save their rice crops. Cambodia's agricultural sector, particularly rice production, is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, making responses to natural disasters such as droughts and floods a pressing issue. The accurate assessment of damage and the swift implementation of support measures are crucial for maintaining stability in rural areas and ensuring the livelihoods of the Cambodian people. Source: AKP Khmer