ID :
334643
Tue, 07/08/2014 - 11:39
Auther :

El Nino affects Thai farm sector

BANGKOK, July 8 (TNA) - The El Nino weather phenomenon has delayed and reduced rainfalls in Thailand, causing lower water reserves at local dams and probably affecting the Thai farm sector. The Thai Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has predicted that rice yields in the country should, thus, be lower than expected this year due to the delayed downpours. Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Cooperatives Chavalit Chookajorn told journalits on Tuesday that usable water in reservoirs of Sirikit and Bhumibol Dams now accounts for only 10 per cent of their combined capacity. Under the condition, Chavalit acknowledged, Thai farm products should fall in volume this year, projecting that the amount of Thai rice produced this year should drop to 26 million tons totally, from 28 million tons targeted earlier. Chavalit said that his ministry has, therefore, ordered more rainmaking operations to support local plantations for the time being. The Meteorological Department forecast, however, that a monsoon would increase water in local reservoirs late this month and there should consequently be enough water for local consumption and agriculture. (TNA)

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