VIENTIANE (Laotian Times): Laos capital, Vientiane, is preparing a series of flood management measures to reduce recurring flooding, with implementation scheduled before the 2026 rainy season.
Bounyavath Niraxay, Head of the Department of Public Works and Transport, announced the plan during the 10th National Assembly Ordinary Session on 17 December.
The measures include cleaning secondary drainage channels and roadside drains, repairing blocked water pumps and gates, rebuilding drainage pipes in smaller areas, and restoring flood protection culverts along the Mekong River.
Surveys and designs for new drainage systems have already been conducted in key areas, including the Sikhottabong district to improve drainage from Wattay International Airport, as well as the Xaythany district, where improvements are planned for the Phakhao market, the Dongdok traffic light area, and Don Tieu Village 2. Additionally, work is planned in Sisattanak and Saysettha districts, covering areas such as Viengchaleun and Hong Kae villages, and the That Luang traffic light area.
The department is also collaborating with Hatxayfong district on a flood prevention plan for Hatdokkeo and Donkeut villages, with a budget proposal currently in development.
The department’s efforts include ongoing collaborations with the Department of Water Resources and the World Bank, focused on developing models, training staff, and enhancing technical skills for flood risk prevention. A comprehensive master plan for flood management is also in preparation.
Looking forward, the department will require developers who have obstructed or built drainage ditches to clear them at their own expense before each rainy season.
Community and business involvement will be encouraged through village-level agreements for drainage maintenance. Additionally, future developments may require developers to provide a deposit for road and drainage upkeep.
Vientiane Capital will seek international support to fund permanent drainage systems and provide cleaning equipment, potentially managed by a dedicated unit for more effective flood management. -- Laotian Times
