Transforming Agriculture in Cambodia: Progress of the Banteay Meanchey Irrigation and Flood Mitigation Project

The Banteay Meanchey province in Cambodia is witnessing a transformative change through the ongoing Irrigation Development and Flood Mitigation Project (IDFMP). With concessional financing from the Republic of Korea, the project has achieved a completion rate of 64.02% as of January 15, 2025, exceeding the planned target of 52.73%. This milestone underscores the efficiency and dedication of the expert team driving the initiative.

Key Achievements to Date

The project has made significant progress across multiple fronts:

1. Reservoir Rehabilitation:
   1. Pongro Reservoir: 100% completed.
   1. Wang Huea Reservoir: 100% completed.
   1. Kangseng Reservoir: 99% completed.
2. Canal System Development:
   1. MC1-1 Main Canal: 98% completed.
   1. MC1-2 Main Canal: 85% completed.
   1. MC2 Main Canal: 95.04% completed.
   1. MC3-1 Main Canal: 36% completed.
   1. MC3-2 Main Canal: 98.50% completed.
3. Artistic Structures:
   1. 127 out of 216 structures completed, enhancing water flow and management capabilities.

Infrastructure and Impact

The IDFMP has constructed five large-scale irrigation and drainage canals spanning 87.6 kilometers, alongside 216 artistic structures. Key reservoirs, including Pongro, Wang Huea, and Kanseng, have been rehabilitated, while the Ou Kai Don Reservoir has undergone essential repairs.

This infrastructure has the potential to:

• Irrigate approximately 28,354 hectares of cropland during the rainy season.
• Support 13,827 hectares of cropland in the dry season.
• Directly benefit 42,213 farming families across 12 communes in Poipet City, Malai District, Ou Chrov District, and Serei Saophoan City.

A Vision for Agricultural Sustainability

By channeling water from streams and rivers along the Cambodia-Thailand border, the IDFMP aims to address critical challenges in water management, reduce the impact of floods, and enhance agricultural productivity. Once completed in mid-2026, the project will provide a sustainable solution to water scarcity and empower farmers with reliable irrigation systems.

The Banteay Meanchey Irrigation and Flood Mitigation Project exemplifies the transformative power of strategic investments in agricultural infrastructure. By combining advanced engineering with a vision for sustainability, this initiative not only supports local farmers but also strengthens Cambodia’s agricultural resilience. With continued progress, the IDFMP is poised to become a cornerstone of rural development in the region.