Phnom Penh, October 19, 2010 AKP --
Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen has said that the recent rain floods have damaged some 6,000 ha of short-term rice in Pursat Province, which is greater than the damage to rice in Kampong Thom Province hit by Typhoon Ketsana last year.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony in Phnom Penh Monday, Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen pointed out that the rain floods were not as severe as Typhoon Ketsana; however it is more widespread in the provinces.
In September 2009, Typhoon Ketsana struck Cambodia, notably in Kampong Thom, causing human and animal deaths and damages to houses, rice crops and physical infrastructure.
The torrential rains last weeks have caused rain floods in many areas in a number of provinces and towns, including the low areas in Capital City of Phnom Penh, Takeo, Kandal, Kampong Chhnang, and Pursat. The rain floods have so far claimed four lives and damaged the rice crops and infrastructures.
However, the Prime Minister said he was confident in the rice production quantity in the coming harvest season as rice growing this year is generally good, exceeding 4% or 10,000 ha. over the target.
Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen appreciated the competent authorities of all levels, the National Committee for Disaster Management and Cambodian Red Cross for their joint efforts to help people.--AKP
(By Ravuth M.)
