On 23 March 2026, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology (MOWRAM) held a meeting chaired by Minister Thor Chetha to review and discuss the results of the preliminary feasibility study for the Mekong–Stung Sen canal project. The meeting was held at the ministry with representatives of Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water).
Background
According to the ministry, Tonle Sap receives water from rainfall, the Mekong River, and 11 major tributaries. The ministry stated that water levels are high during the rainy season and low during the dry season, contributing to water shortages. In this context, the Mekong–Stung Sen canal project was presented as an initiative associated with bilateral discussions between Prime Minister Hun Manet and the chief executive of K-water in May 2024 and February 2025.
Key Project Discussion
The meeting focused on the preliminary feasibility study for a canal linking the Mekong River and the Stung Sen. MOWRAM stated that the project is intended to help retain sufficient water volume in Tonle Sap for use during the dry season and to support broader economic development through increased agricultural productivity.
The ministry also linked the project to implementation of the government’s Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1 and to the strategic development plan for the water resources and meteorology sector. The stated policy objectives include water security, disaster management, climate resilience, agricultural water supply, and daily water use by the population through use of Mekong water resources.
Official Source
Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology (MOWRAM), Facebook post published on 23 March 2026.
