Phnom penh: Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has called for timely preparations and interventions in response to rising Mekong River water levels and flooding in some areas, stressing that the protection of people's lives and safety must remain the top priority. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of examining the situation and preparing interventions at an inauguration ceremony for sections of National Road No. 73, Provincial Road No. 377, and Provincial Road No. 377A, which span a combined length of 98.405 kilometers and were financed by the World Bank. The event took place in Kratie provincial city on Tuesday. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet acknowledged that it is impossible to prevent natural disasters completely, but stressed the importance of building resilience through an effective response system capable of addressing risks and challenges arising from natural disasters. He stated, "We do not have the capacity to prevent natural disaste rs 100 percent, but we must build resilience, especially a working system that can respond to risks arising from natural disasters." The Prime Minister further emphasized the need for authorities and relevant institutions to monitor developments closely and address problems as they arise, ensuring that necessary measures are implemented in a timely manner. His remarks came amid rising Mekong River water levels this year, with flooding reported in some areas in Kratie, Thbong Khmum, and other regions. The call underscores the importance of preparedness, early intervention, and coordinated emergency response to minimize the impact of flooding on communities and protect the safety and livelihoods of affected people.