VIENTIANE, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- A section of the embankment on the Mekong river collapsed in Lao capital Vientiane, with farmlands flooded in low-lying areas though there were no reports of the incident posing a threat to people's lives.
The collapse occurred at Ban Hom village in Hadxaifong district at around 1:00 a.m. local time on Thursday, as the water level has increased rapidly following several spells of light and heavy rains across the Southeast Asian country, Lao National TV reported on Friday.
The water overflowed and slowly flooded farmlands in low-lying areas after the embankment collapse. "We visited the area to collect information about the damage, and will announce this as soon as possible," said governor of Hadxaifong district, Bounpheng Sinavongphone.
After the water recedes, the concerned sectors will carry out repairs of the embankment so that conditions can return to normal.
Local authorities are keeping a close eye on the Mekong river and its tributaries since water levels are expected to rise in the next few days.
People living along the river's banks have been warned to stay alert and to prepare to evacuate, if necessary. The Mekong river is close to the danger level at some places after several days of rain.
The water level of the Mekong river in the Lao capital Vientiane was recorded at 11.20 meters on Friday, compared with a warning level of 11.50 meters and a danger level of 12.50 meters, according to an update issued on Friday by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Lao Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
Rain is forecast for the northern, southern and central areas of Laos during Aug. 9-15, and this is expected to increase the levels of the Mekong and its main tributaries.
The department advised its officials to closely watch the water levels and issue flood warnings when necessary, so that people in at-risk areas can be prepared to mitigate the fallout of flooding. ■
