Battambang Province Opens Water Gates Amid Severe Drought to Save Rice Crops

A severe drought, exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, is threatening rice crops in Battambang Province, western Cambodia. On July 21, 2026, a team of experts from the Provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology opened the Oudong Pon water gate to release water into the Kamping Pouy Reservoir, aiming to save the region's rice cultivation. In recent times, drought conditions have emerged in several areas across Battambang Province. The Provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology had previously alerted all levels of authorities to maintain high vigilance due to the province's susceptibility to the El Niño phenomenon. This event has led to a decrease in the southwest monsoon and significantly lower rainfall levels compared to the average over recent years. Consequently, the province faces the risk of light to severe water shortages and drought from July 20 to August 10, 2026. The drought has caused water levels in the Kamping Pouy Reservoir to drop progressively, exposing the reservoir's bed. Rice crops surrounding the reservoir area are suffering from a lack of water, with farmers' paddy fields beginning to turn red, indicating a high risk of crop failure. The water from this reservoir is crucial for supporting rice cultivation in several districts, including Banan, Bavet, Thma Kol, and Battambang city. According to Ney Pov, the commune chief of Ta Kharm, the opening of the Oudong Pon water gate was a direct response to the water scarcity. Water released during the night of July 21 reached O Slap Pang River. The water source flowing into the Kamping Pouy Reservoir originates from the Mongkol Borei River, passing through the Kdol Ta Hen River and into the Bavel River before reaching the Oudong Pon canal. Despite the limited volume of water entering the reservoir, many farmers have deployed water pumps to irrigate their fields. This initial water supply is considered a crucial rescue measure for the struggling rice crops.