(HG) - According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, in the 2023-2024 dry season, saline intrusion in the Mekong Delta will be higher than the average of many years, equivalent to 2020-2021. During the peak period (around February to April 2024), there may be a local shortage of fresh water and saline intrusion deep into river mouths; thereby affecting production and people's lives in the dry season.

The Prime Minister requested localities not to let fresh water shortages for production and daily life in areas frequently affected by saltwater intrusion during the dry season.

To proactively respond to the risk of drought, local water shortages, and saltwater intrusion, the Prime Minister requested Ministers and Chairmen of People's Committees of provinces and centrally run cities to monitor and proactively implement measures to respond to the risk of drought, water shortages, and saltwater intrusion in the peak months of the upcoming dry season. In particular, People's Committees of provinces and centrally run cities, especially those in the Mekong Delta, must closely monitor weather developments, hydrometeorological forecasts, droughts, and saltwater intrusion; determine the level of impact on each locality to proactively implement specific response measures according to the direction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and in accordance with the actual situation in the locality. In addition, it is necessary to organize guidance for people to use water economically and effectively, prioritize ensuring the supply of domestic water for people, medical and educational facilities, and other essential needs, and resolutely not let people lack fresh water for daily life.

HUU PHUOC