(KPL) Minister of Public Works and Transport Lekhai Sivilay on Feb 21 urged relevant sectors to accelerate measures ensuring sufficient tap water supply for public use in Vientiane Capital.

During an inspection of water production and distribution operations, the minister visited the Ya Pa Village water treatment plant in Sikhottabong District, the Tha Khao Village plant in Sisattanak District, and the Chinaimo treatment facility. He was welcomed by the leadership of the Vientiane Capital Water Supply State Enterprise and relevant stakeholders.

Officials reported that current water production in the capital reaches about 370,000 cubic meters per day, while demand stands at approximately 400,000 cubic meters per day.

The minister emphasized immediate action to expand distribution networks, particularly from operational plants such as Ya Pa, to ensure faster and more convenient public access. He also instructed authorities to complete the Tha Khao water treatment plant, now 95 percent finished, so it can supply water to the urban transmission system as planned.

Addressing declining water levels in the Mekong River, he called for coordinated investigation into root causes and closer consultation with relevant ministries regarding dam water releases, while urging the development of contingency supply systems.

He further stressed the need to tackle water leakage through modern technology, strengthen public participation in monitoring, and ensure long-term planning for infrastructure expansion, disaster preparedness and sustainable service delivery.

The minister instructed the Department of Water Supply, the Vientiane Capital Public Works and Transport Department and the State Enterprise to enhance coordination and promptly resolve operational challenges to support urban development.

KPL