Sikhottabong district authorities build a wall of sandbags to prevent flooding in Dankham village. - Photo: Vientiane Times/ANN
VIENTIANE: Sikhottabong district authorities are engaged in a valiant effort to prevent flooding, after the Mekong River rose to over 11.5 metres as measured at May village, just below the flood level of 12 metres.
Sandbags have been laid along the riverbank in Dankham village, where flooding is most likely to occur.
Of Sikhottabong district’s 60 villages, 19 are situated by the Mekong riverbank, putting them at risk.
The Mekong has been rising rapidly since Aug 23, reaching alarming levels on Aug 28.
If the level rises to 12 metres, more riverbank communities will be faced with the prospect of flooding.
More than 40 families in Nongda village, seven in Tadthong village, 22 in Dankham village and five in Xiengxou village have already been affected by floods and many families have moved to other places until the water recedes.
The Governor of Sikhottabong district, Thavixay Maosomphou, said they would monitor the river level closely over the next 24 hours.
District authorities are helping people to move from flooded areas, while about 200 cattle and goats have also been taken to higher ground, he added.
The district is on high alert for further flooding and has recruited almost 200 people to assist with flood-prevention efforts.
Hom village in Hadxaifong district is also on alert for flooding after the Mekong rose to a dangerous level. - Vientiane Times/ANN
