The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has said that from 2016 to 2020, the ministry plans to spend over VND11.5 trillion upgrading, repairing and building some 20 irrigation constructions for the Central Highlands as well as the southeast region.

A branch of a canal leading water from Ea Sup Thuong Lake to fields in Ea Sup district, Dak Lak province. (Photo: thongtinkhcndaklak.vn)

Over the past 5 years, MARD has invested over VND4.8 trillion to upgrade, repair and build 12 irrigation works for Central Highlands provinces. A majority of these projects have been put into operation, ensuring irrigation for over 60,000 hectares of agricultural production.

There are currently 2,352 irrigation works in the Central Highlands, mainly small- and medium-sized construction projects, irrigating 215,765 hectares of land. However, irrigation has only been ensured for 50% of rice production and 21% of coffee tree production area. Irrigation for the remaining production area is done mainly with water from rivers, streams and wells./.

Compiled by VNF