World Water Day 2023: Commemoration Ceremony held in Nay Pyi Taw

Myanmar observed the World Water Day 2023 with a ceremony in Nay Pyi Taw on Wednesday. Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in his capacity as the Chairman of National Water Resources Committee attended the ceremony and made a speech.

He said the demand of water is increasing globally due to the growth of populations and development of urban and industries. On the other hand, there has seen decrease of water resources due to the climate change and impacts on natural environment by man-made incidents.

The world nations are working hand in hand to tackle the problem of decreasing water resources. To emphasize this issue, the World Water Day celebration has been held annually, and the theme for this year event is "Accelerating Change”. He added that Myanmar has abundant of fresh water resources including rivers, creeks, lakes and natural springs, accounting for 1.7% of fresh water globally. Despite these abundant sources, some areas of the country, especially the upper Myanmar, face scarcity of water every summer. Locals in those areas suffer inconveniences in their socio-economic life due to insufficiency of water for drinking purpose as well as agriculture and livestock sector.

He added that the State Administration Council is prioritizing for availability of water and maintenance of water resources in line with the Road Map. He also stressed that water resources are crucial in water transportation for both commuting and commodity flow.  So, it needs to maintain the river routes from being shallow. He pointed out that preservation of watershed areas and forests could help reduce in tackling water scarcity issue. He called for cooperation of all concerned departments, partner countries and NGOs in accelerating the efforts for development of water related sector. 

The Prime Minister later presented awards to the first, second and third prize winners at the Article Contest in commemorating the World Water Day 2023. Vice Chairman of the National Committee Deputy Prime Minister Union Minister for Transport and Communications Admiral Tin Aung San later presented awards to the consolation prize winners.

It was followed by screening of World Water Day commemorative video clip. The Prime Minister and party later viewed the display of commemorative booths. The World Water Day 2023 was held with the objectives of raising awareness on the work undertakings for water related sector, difficulties and ways to tackle the issues, educating and encouraging for cooperation to the concerned persons and to highlight Myanmar’s participation in the international activities for water related events.