South Korean lawmaker Seo Sam-seok, chair of the National Assembly's Agriculture, Food, Rural Affairs, Oceans and Fisheries Committee, visited agricultural sites in Yeongam struggling with water supply due to drought.
On August 7, Seo, accompanied by Yeongam Mayor Woo Seung-hee, inspected the Bangadeul Reservoir in Samho-eup to evaluate the water supply conditions for nearby farmland.
Local residents and officials were present to discuss the ongoing heatwave and lack of rainfall affecting agricultural water supply and to explore measures to prepare for prolonged drought conditions.
The Bangadeul Reservoir has seen a significant reduction in water levels due to the recent heat and insufficient rainfall, making it urgent to secure agricultural water for surrounding farmland.
To minimize crop damage, Yeongam County has deployed water trucks for emergency supply and is utilizing available facilities and equipment, such as pumping stations, to provide water to drought-prone areas.
Seo and Woo inspected the water supply operations using water trucks and heard from residents about the challenges faced in farming due to the lack of agricultural water.
They agreed that it is essential to develop medium- to long-term strategies to ensure a stable water supply in regions that frequently experience drought, rather than relying solely on short-term emergency measures.
Woo Seung-hee, the mayor of Yeongam, stated, “It is most urgent to supply water to where it is needed to minimize crop damage,” adding, “We will actively utilize available equipment and administrative resources to ensure there are no disruptions in agricultural water supply.”
He emphasized the need to devise plans to secure a stable water supply for areas that are prone to recurring droughts.
Seo Sam-seok remarked, “I have directly witnessed the difficulties faced by farmers and the lack of agricultural water,” noting that securing necessary water for farming is a critical issue for maintaining agricultural production.
He also stated, “We will collaborate with relevant agencies to explore necessary support measures on the ground.”
Yeongam County plans to continuously monitor weather conditions and water levels while utilizing available facilities and equipment, such as water trucks and pumping stations, to supply agricultural water to drought-prone areas. In preparation for prolonged drought, additional measures to secure water sources will also be pursued.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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