PHNOM PENH, June 22 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank has approved 145 million U.S. dollars in credit to support a water security improvement project in Cambodia, said its news release on Saturday.

The Cambodia Water Security Improvement Project will improve water security, increase agricultural productivity, and build resilience to climate risks, the news release said, adding that over 113,000 people in Cambodia are expected to benefit from it.

"This project helps Cambodia move toward sustainable water security and greater agricultural productivity," said Maryam Salim, the World Bank country manager for Cambodia.

"Investing now in climate resilience, planning, and better infrastructure not only addresses the immediate water needs of Cambodian farmers and households, but also lays the groundwork for long-term water service delivery," she added.

Although Cambodia has abundant water, seasonal and regional differences in rainfall bring challenges to urban and rural water supply, the news release said, adding that climate projections suggest flooding and drought will become more frequent and severe, placing even more strain on the country's capacity to manage its freshwater resources.

"This would affect food production and economic growth," the news release said.

The project will be implemented over five years by the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries.

"It will enhance water resource management by expanding hydrometeorological stations, updating policies and regulations, preparing climate-informed river basin management plans, and strengthening the performance of central and provincial water authorities," the news release said.

Water supply systems for households and irrigation are to be rehabilitated and upgraded, while the project will train farmer water user communities and provide technical assistance for improved operation and maintenance of infrastructure, the news release added. ■