ĐỒNG THÁP — Construction began on Thursday on Việt Nam’s first inter-provincial raw water supply project in Kim Sơn Commune, Đồng Tháp Province, aiming to provide a sustainable solution to freshwater shortages in the Mekong Delta.

The Đồng Tâm Raw Water Pumping Station and Transmission Pipeline System is invested by DNP – Sông Tiền Water Company, a member of DNP Water. It is designed to transport non-saline water from the Tiền River and Nguyễn Tấn Thành Canal to existing water plants in Đồng Tháp, Tây Ninh and Vĩnh Long.

The project has a total investment of more than VNĐ1.82 trillion (US$69.1 million) and a capacity of 300,000 cubic metres per day. It is expected to be completed and put into operation in late 2026.

The 115-kilometre network will provide raw water for more than two million people for daily use, production and industrial activities. In its second phase, capacity will double to 600,000 cubic metres per day, forming a continuous freshwater system along the Tiền River provinces.

Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyễn Tường Văn said the project marks a strategic step in developing large-scale regional water infrastructure in the Mekong Delta, helping to ensure water security and sustainable development amid worsening climate change.

Đồng Tháp’s Vice Chairman Nguyễn Thành Diệu said the province expects the project to help it cope with saltwater intrusion and ensure stable water supply for both residents and production.

“We believe this will be one of the most successful projects in the Mekong Delta,” he said.

DNP Water chairman Hoàng Minh Hùng said the company will ensure quality and safety during construction, adding that the project represents a shared commitment between enterprises and local authorities to sustainable development.

The Mekong Delta is among the regions most affected by climate change, with saltwater intrusion, drought and declining groundwater levels threatening both livelihoods and industries. The project is expected to form a stable and resilient water supply network that reduces drought impacts, protects public health and improves living conditions.

Following the Tiền River project, DNP Water plans to develop a similar system along the Hậu River to supply freshwater to Cà Mau, Bạc Liêu, Sóc Trăng and Cần Thơ - areas most affected by land subsidence and saline intrusion.

With 23 member companies and affiliates providing over one million cubic metres of water daily, DNP Water continues to play a pioneering role in Việt Nam’s water and environmental infrastructure sector. — VNS