There is an urgent need for sugarcane growing areas to invest in infield irrigation to help in saltwater prevention and freshwater retention. Trần Văn Thành’s sugarcane field is located in an area already affected by saltwater intrusion, but his plants are still growing well. He is confident as he has a good irrigation system.
"With dykes and canals, we can detect when there is saline water and close the sluice gates so to hold the fresh water. This helps the sugarcane grow better." - Farmer, Nga Bay Town, Hau Giang Prov.
Although this proves to be effective, irrigation system investment in sugarcane cultivation areas has received little attention.
"Only urgent projects are given priority. Projects with related costs are still pending." - HUYNH NGOC VAN, Deputy Director, Soc Trang Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
"If we don’t invest in projects to prevent saline water and preserve fresh water, some areas won’t be able to grow sugarcane." - LE MINH DUONG, Vice Chairman, Cu Lao Dung District People’s Committee, Soc Trang Prov.
The area devoted to sugarcane cultivation in the Mekong Delta has fallen 5,000 hectares, to 32,000 hectares for the 2016-17 season. With the current severe farming conditions, no one can tell whether the area will shrink further. Investing in the irrigation system is the most sustainable way to protect sugarcane growing areas, and this requires careful planning by localities.
