QUANG NGAI (VNS) – Deteriorating reservoirs are one of the greatest concerns of residents of the central region during the monsoon season.
Due to insufficient funds being available for the upgrade and maintenance work, many localities can only set short-term plans to ensure the safety of irrigation systems in the monsoon season.
The Hoc Bua Reservoir in Binh Son District, which was constructed 40 years ago, has become severely damaged over time. The local authority has had to mobilise human resources and available means to repair the dam every year before the flooding season.
"When the monsoon season approaches, we are afraid the dam may break and so have to move to other places. I hope the authority upgrades the dam to ensure the safety of the local people," Tran Van Thanh of Binh Son District said.
There are 119 reservoirs that provide water to more than 12,500ha in Quang Ngai Province. Three-fourths of the total reservoirs were built before 1989 and are now in poor condition.
Deputy Director of Quang Ngai Province's Agriculture and Rural Development Department Nguyen Mau Van said the province has prepared plans to ask for state funds for maintenance and repair work of the deteriorating reservoir system.
Besides regular checks and maintenance work, the Quang Ngai agriculture department also prioritises forecasting of reservoir levels so that the local people can prepare a prompt response to natural disasters. — VNS