Laos launches nationwide irrigation database
A new irrigation database which utilises Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite information has been launched in Vientiane.
The system is supported with funding and technical assistance from the Mekong River Commission (MRC) Secretariat and will help improve irrigation nationwide.
The MRC aims to promote better water management in the Mekong River Basin by accurately gauging how much water is being used for irrigation purposes, as well as analysing the impacts of drought and flooding.
“Geographic Information Systems are required to create an accurate irrigation database and a complete, layered regional map,” said Pasonexay Insisiengmay, deputy head of the Planning and Cooperation Division in the Department of Irrigation.
Duangxai Sinnachack, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry’s Irrigation Department deputy director general, said: “The improvement of irrigation management through the upgraded database system is vital for the initial design prior to construction [of irrigation infrastructure] in order to meet necessary standards and achieve effective outcomes.”
