Impact of Typhoon Ketsana
Lvea Em District, Cambodia
October 2009
Background:
The Mekong River is the life of the people of Cambodia. Due to heavy monsoon rains the Mekong River and its tributaries flood every year affecting 25% of the Mekong River basin. This is compounded by uncontrolled deforestation and flash flooding. In Cambodia, approximately 7,000 m3 of provincial land located around Phnom Penh city and along Cambodia–Vietnam border are highly prone to annual Mekong floods. The most flood prone provinces are Steng Treng, Kratie, Kampong Cham, Kandal, Prey Veng and Svay Reang.
Typhoon Ketsana:
While flooding is accepted as a normal seasonal occurrence, due to other climatic events there are times when this is so severe it is classified as disaster level as in 2000, 2001 and 2002. In September typhoon Ketsana hit the Philippines then continued eastwards towards Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.
The Situation:
Lvea Em district (AOC’s project area) is situated within Kandal province. As a direct result of typhoon Ketsana 637 households are without income and food source. These are the most poor and vulnerable who derive their income as agriculture laborers. The unexpected high level of flooding obliterated newly planted crops which will not be able to be replanted until the flood level recedes in late November, (no crops-no work-no food). These people are already trying to sell off what little they have, borrow money or seek loans which will increase their debt burden. However for many this is impossible as it is known they can never repay the debt.
The Response
| Description |
Cost USD |
50 kg rice for 637 households
Total 31,850 kg of rice |
$ 19,110.00 |
Transportation city to ferry,
ferry to people home. |
$ 596.00 |
| 650 bags and printing logo |
$ 325.00 |
| Administration |
$ 350.00
|
| Total |
$ 20,381.00 |
| or $32 per household |
|
In 2007 a Flood Preparedness Program was prepared in close cooperation with all sectors to minimize impact of flood disaster along the Mekong River, and as a basis for increasing cooperation to provide effectively and timely response during flood, rehabilitation and recovery.
As a key leader in development in this area, AOC is committed to assist in anyway possible. The district Flood Relief program has been implemented, through the Ministry of Health. Asian Outreach Cambodia has been requested to assist with purchasing and distribution of rice for those most affected.
Partnering with us to support these people would be sincerely appreciated by district officials, the people of Lvea Em and the staff of AOC.
Very Sincerely
Thong Romanea AOC
Asian Outreach Cambodia
For more info email: director@aocam.org
