PHNOM PENH: Proactive new measures have been announced to address water shortages during the upcoming dry season. They include widespread public education campaigns and the earmarking of funds for emergency responses to those affected.
According to a March 6 press release, the measures were agreed upon during a March 5 meeting of the Economic and Financial Policy Committee (EFPC), held to address the “Status of Clean Water and Water Usage in the Agricultural Sector”.
The meeting was chaired by Aun Pornmoniroth, Minister of Economy and Finance and EFPC chairman.
Senior officials from government institutions participated, with a focus on the current status and challenges of the Kingdom’s clean water stocks and agricultural water use.
To effectively manage water resources, the committee established short-term measures, which will be implemented over the next one to two years.
They emphasise the need for a reassessment of investment in water resource infrastructure and improving water supply capacity to meet growing demands in agriculture and industry.
Medium- and long-term measures focus on formulating a comprehensive master plan for water resource development, management and usage.
The plan also includes institutional reforms and strengthened governance mechanisms for inter-ministerial coordination.
The press release highlighted that water resources are among the five priority sectors in the first phase of the seventh-mandate government’s Pentagonal Strategy, which includes human resources, roads, water, electricity and technology.
Economic growth, including the expansion of agricultural land and rapid industrial development in recent years, has increased water consumption by both individuals and businesses. Particularly during the dry season, the demand for clean and accessible water continues to rise.
Given this growing demand, investment efficiency and equitable water distribution must be carefully considered to ensure optimal water supply to all economic and social sectors.
The meeting participants discussed key issues such as the current state of water management, challenges in water allocation efficiency, gaps in legal frameworks, deficiencies in data-sharing mechanisms on water resources and the operational effectiveness of private clean water providers. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
