Irrigation systems across Laos affected by floods

VIENTIANE, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) — Severe flooding in Laos from July to September has heavily impacted the irrigation system, damaging 300 projects in 12 provinces across the country and affecting nearly 15,000 hectares of agricultural land.
The total losses are estimated at 592 billion Lao kip (some 26 million U.S. dollars), Lao National Radio reported on Thursday.
Lao capital Vientiane experienced the most severe damage, with 15 projects affected, followed by Luang Namtha province with 14 projects, and Huaphan province five projects.
Lao authorities stressed the urgency of restoring all damaged irrigation systems, particularly those essential for the upcoming dry season’s crops so that farmers can produce within the seasonal timeline.
Many parts of Laos have been affected by flooding and landslides, with farmland, residences and other property damaged following rainfall caused by several storms from July to September. ■