Group plans to start distributing water in Pyin Oo Lwin
17 January 2021 - Source: Myanmar Times
Pyin Oo Lwin in Mandalay Region is expected to run out of water by the end of the month.
The Pyin Oo Lwin Sein Lann Natural Environment Group plans to start distributing water this weekend to help the district's residents manage through the drought.
The water distribution operation will be carried out in collaboration with the Township Management Committee.
"Pyin Oo Lwin 's normal precipitation range from 50 to 57 inches per year but it only recorded half of that amount in 2020," said U Lay Myint Aung, the leader of the Pyin Oo Lwin Sein Lann Group.
According to information provided, there are currently two sources of water for the residents of the district. Some residents are using water pipes constructed during the English colonial era while others are using wells.
Surveys are currently being conducted to identify which water source – water pipes or wells – will dry out first.
U Lay Myint Aung said they are currently waiting for the Town Development Committee to approve the budget for purchasing water supply trucks.
Groups will be formed this coming week to carry out the distribution of water with water supply trucks and for the undertaking of ground research and preservation of freshwater swamps, water springs and forests, said the leader.
"The Kandawgyi Lake once dried up in 1996 and the lake outlets have been enlarged and wet forests preserved. Meetings will be held after discussions with the Township Management Committee. Water distribution will commence in collaboration with the City Development Committee, Myanmar Fire Service Department, Department of Forestry and social groups," he added.
The Department of Irrigation and Water Management said climate change has resulted in increased temperature in Pyin Oo Lwin since 2010. Deforestation and the selling and development of forested lands and property have led to smaller forested areas in the district.
Pyin Oo Lwin is currently experiencing drought due to scarce water at the Kandawgyi Lake and other lakes in the area. The dams have less water as well, said the department. - Translated
