VND490 billion earmarked for construction of reservoir in Long An

The Prime Minister has agreed to provide over VND490 billion (US$22 million) to the Mekong Delta province of Long An for the construction of a reservoir to store fresh water for agricultural production and supply water to locals in Dong Thap Muoi (the Plain of Reeds).

It is expected that work will be completed and the reservoir will be put into operation by early 2018.

 

Of the total investment, the central budget will cover VND390 billion for construction work, while the local budget of more than VND100 billion will serve as compensation for land clearance and resettlement for locals whose land is affected.

 

The reservoir is located in the commune of Thuan Binh in the district of Thanh Hoa, covering an area of 100ha with a capacity of more than 4.5 million cubic metres of water.

 

To reduce the evaporation of water in the reservoir, shade trees and windbreaks will be set up around the lake, while aquatic organisms (such as water hyacinth) will be planted to create vegetation on its surface and to serve as water filters.

 

Once completed, it will provide fresh water to 16,000ha of land used in rice production and aquaculture, while providing a supply of water to nearly 65,000 people living in the Plain of Reeds in Long An.

 

It will help regulate fresh water during the dry and rainy seasons, actively respond to climate change and secure water resources planning in accordance with the needs of local socioeconomic development.

 

It is also expected to conserve mangrove forest ecosystems and promote tourism for Long An in a sustainable way.

 

(Source: NDO)