Background
Reliable irrigation networks are central to agricultural water management in Cambodia, especially in provinces where rainfall variability affects planting decisions and dry-season production. Irrigation infrastructure in Cambodia supports dry-season farming by moving stored or diverted water through canals, reservoirs, gates, and distribution networks to agricultural land. Pipe-based distribution can reduce conveyance losses where systems are designed and maintained for local hydraulic conditions.
The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology is the central government institution responsible for water resources management and meteorological services in Cambodia. Its project role includes assessing water infrastructure needs, coordinating external development finance, and supervising implementation arrangements for irrigation and water security programs. Integrated water resources management connects irrigation planning with watershed conditions, climate risk, agricultural demand, and maintenance requirements.
The Strategic Integrated Water Resources Management Phase II project is planned for implementation from 2027 to 2031 with financing from the Asian Development Bank. According to MOWRAM, the project covers Pursat, Battambang, Pailin, Banteay Meanchey, and Siem Reap provinces and is intended to support sustainable and inclusive development of Cambodia’s water resources sector in line with the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy.
Key Developments
On 8 May 2026, Van Chantho, Undersecretary of State and Project Director for Integrated Water Resources Management, led an Asian Development Bank mission to inspect an irrigation system development subproject in Pailin province. The mission was conducted on behalf of Minister Thor Chetha.
MOWRAM said the mission reviewed actual work progress and examined potential pilot locations for the implementation of a pipe-based irrigation water distribution network within the irrigation system.
Institutional Role
MOWRAM’s role in the mission was to coordinate technical review, project-site assessment, and engagement with the ADB mission. The ministry described the work as part of preparations connected to the second phase of the Strategic Integrated Water Resources Management project.
The Asian Development Bank is identified by MOWRAM as the financing partner for the five-year project period from 2027 to 2031. The subproject review in Pailin forms part of the ministry’s broader water resources infrastructure planning across the five target provinces.
Operational Implications
The inspection focused on practical project design issues, including the identification of a sample location for testing a pipe-based irrigation water distribution network. MOWRAM linked the activity to the goals of strengthening water security, maintaining irrigation infrastructure sustainability, responding to climate change, and supporting agricultural modernization.
