Saline intrusion and climate change-related natural risks have increasingly affected countries in the Mekong region, particularly those in the lower Mekong River basin. Rising sea levels and altered river flows during the dry season have intensified sea tides and saline intrusion. Since mid-2019, the Mekong River’s water levels have remained critically low, severely impacting livelihoods and public health—especially for farmers who rely on river water for irrigation and freshwater aquaculture. These activities are highly sensitive to salinity and therefore face a high risk of loss. Combined with the broader effects of climate change-induced natural hazards, vulnerable populations in the Mekong region—particularly the poor and farming communities— have been disproportionately affected. Read more...
Priority Sector
Environment
Project Site
No. of Direct Beneficiaries
Duration
Jun-2021 to Jul-2023
Development of a Climate Change- Related Disaster Risk Zoning Map: This component included project approval procedures, start-up seminars, consultant selection, on-site data collection, map development, and seminars to present preliminary results and assess public awareness.
Enhancement of the Saline Intrusion Monitoring Network: This involved the procurement and installation of online monitoring equipment, site selection, establishment of data transmission and reception systems, data analysis and database development, training for equipment operators, report preparation, creation and dissemination of communication materials and databases, organization of training sessions, and presentation of final results.
To enhance disaster monitoring and early warning capacity, 34 disaster hazard zone atlases were developed, covering various risks. the paper maps provided detailed information on the impacts of different hazards on agriculture and residents’ lives, offering strong support for disaster early warning systems. Three (3) continuous automatic salt monitoring stations were installed and have been operating stably, transmitting data every 10 minutes to promptly capture changes in river water salinity. This has significantly strengthened salt intrusion monitoring and early warning capabilities.
Significant progress was also made in raising public awareness. Nine training courses and a variety of promotional materials were conducted and distributed, increasing awareness among local governments and communities about salt intrusion and climate change risks. These efforts improved public access to relevant information and strengthened disaster preparedness and response planning.
In terms of sustainable development and regional cooperation, the project outcomes provided a scientific basis and practical experience for Can Tho City and the broader Mekong Delta region in addressing climate change. The project also fostered meaningful collaboration between Viet Nam and South Korea, further deepening Mekong–ROK cooperation and contributing to regional development. These efforts accumulated valuable experience and laid a strong foundation for future related initiatives.
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