“Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” Remember that line? Here at the Chanmkar Mon Water Treatment Plant, we make sure that never happens in Phnom Penh. This plant ensures clean, safe drinking water flows to homes and businesses. It is quite a feat.
The Chanmkar Mon Water Treatment Plant plays a vital role. Phnom Penh has seen rapid growth over the past two decades. The city’s population more than doubled. Urban development puts a strain on resources. Supplying clean water is crucial.
Originally built in the 1960s, the Chanmkar Mon Water Treatment Plant underwent renovations in 1996. In 2016, the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority prioritized upgrading it further. This upgrade boosted the plant’s daily production. It jumped from 14,000 to 52,000 cubic meters of water. Now, 332,000 people benefit from this service. They enjoy good quality water at an affordable price.
Before the upgrade, residents faced frequent water cuts. Water pressure was often insufficient. Director Pheng Ty explains the improvement. He notes that today, the service is much better. They provide water 24 hours a day.
The renewed Chanmkar Mon plant began operating on October 28, 2019. The renovation work was technically challenging. All work was carried out in the heart of the city. Now, the plant operates with maximum efficiency. Its performance meets international standards.
Sak Koy, the plant’s director, highlights the advanced technology. They control everything by computer from the data control room. Staff can monitor water pressure, chlorine levels, and temperature. This allows for swift action if issues arise.
A state-of-the-art laboratory conducts additional water quality tests. The Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority focuses on efficiency. This keeps prices low for consumers. The leakage rate averages only 8 percent. Constant monitoring helps detect and repair leaks quickly. Visible leaks get fixed within three hours. Night shifts use stethoscopes to find invisible leaks.
These cost savings allow the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority to assist those in need. They subsidize connections for the poorest households. They even supply drinking water for free or at a reduced cost.
The renovation of the Chanmkar Mon Water Treatment Plant significantly improved water distribution. However, Phnom Penh continues to grow. More steps are needed to meet increasing demand.
Another water treatment plant is under construction in Bakheng. This project is financed by various organizations. Once completed, it will supply an additional 600,000 people with drinking water by 2025. It will become the largest plant in the city.
The French Development Agency has supported the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority since 2002. Their goal is to expand access to water for the growing population. They also aim to ensure the model remains sustainable.
The Chamkar Mon Water Treatment Plant draws water from the Tonle Bassac River. The raw water undergoes a six-stage treatment process. It starts with a receiving basin and ends with a clean water reservoir. Various chemicals play crucial roles. Alum agglomerates sediments. Lime increases the water’s pH. Chlorine kills bacteria and viruses.
The Chamkar Mon plant uses a floating pumping station. This accommodates seasonal water level changes. The plant’s clean water reservoir has a capacity of 1,500 cubic meters.
In late 2020, the Chamkar Mon plant reached its full operational capacity. It now supplies a significant portion of Phnom Penh’s clean water. The Chanmkar Mon Water Treatment Plant stands as a testament to progress. It shows how innovation and investment can improve lives. Next time you turn on the tap, remember the journey that water takes. It is quite the story.