Hydrology Programs and Related Activities of the Mekong River Commission

Abstract

In 1995, the four countries in the Lower Mekong River Basin signed a new agreement of regional cooperation for the sustainable development of the river basin and newly established the Mekong River Commission. Hydrology programs and related activities of the MRC are expected to be strengthened and expanded to support the pressing tasks facing the Commission.
Two projects are under way for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the hydrologic networks of the Mekong. For flood forecasting, the strengthening of the routine activities of MRC is proposed. An integrated package for water balance study will be prepared in 1997. As for the salinity intrusion in the delta, a forecast system is proposed to be completed. One project for surface water quality investigation is being executed in 1997, and one for groundwater will be started soon. For erosion and sedimentation problems, upgrading of computer models is proposed, and a strategic study is now going on. An urgent study is proposed for a seriously affected portion of the river in Cambodia.