Prime Minister Hun Manet shared the impressive details of a man-made lake in Tbong Khmum province, noting that the three million cubic metres it holds supply more than 50,000 people with a much-needed water supply. NGOs have suggested that similar irrigation infrastructure be constructed in other parts of the Kingdom.

According to a June 2 social media post by Manet, the lake was originally known as the "Ta Van Reservoir", and served as a natural water source in the south of the province.

Work was carried between 2014 and 2016 out to expand the reservoir to its current are of 45.4 hectares.

Near the lake is a pool called "Ang Sophoan", literally “Reservoir of Beauty”. At 1,000 by 400 metres, it stands ready to collect overflow from the lake during the rainy season.

Theng Savoeun, president of The Coalition of Cambodian Farmer Community (CCFC), shared his appreciation for the man-made lake and urged that similar infrastructure be built elsewhere, if possible.

He acknowledged that the viability of such projects is dependent on geographical factors, but suggested that the government identify suitable sites for the building of such irrigation systems.

Savoeun noted that there are many more places where similar systems could be introduced, but recognised that dedicated financial and human resources, along with detailed policies, are required to make this possible.

“Clear, focused policies are key. Most recent or existing frameworks deal with existing canals and reservoirs. Few studies into new large-scale irrigation projects have been conducted,” he said.

He called for public consultation on new irrigation systems and water policies in the future, while highlighting the importance of ensuring such projects avoid any negative environmental impacts.

“In my view, there are more canals, streams and rivers where we could construct reservoirs that would be suitable for public use,” he said.