Our Mekong Waterways, Our Shared Responsibility

Mekong River

Taking place in mid-November this year, the festival of Loy Krathong illuminates not only the beauty of tradition but also the delicate relationship between culture and nature. As thousands of floating lanterns embody the release of negativity and wishes for renewal, they also serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the Greater Mekong Sub-Region’s vital waterways.

In Yunnan, China PR, the town of Dali successfully implemented the "Beautiful China" initiative, with a focus on protecting Erhai Lake. The pollution load entering it has significantly decreased, with all 27 major rivers flowing into the lake meeting excellent water quality standards.

In Thailand, Maya Bay reopened last 1 October after a two-month recovery closure. Visitors must follow strict rules designed to balance tourism with conservation, including limited daily visitors and eco-friendly practices.

And in Cambodia, the giant salmon carp – believed to be extinct for almost two decades – has been rediscovered in the Mekong River’s waters. “The rediscovery of the giant salmon carp is a reason for hope, not just for this species but for the entire Mekong ecosystem,” said Bunyeth Chan, lead researcher from Svay Rieng University in Cambodia.

Conservation is winning in the Mekong – but there’s a lot more that needs to be done!

*Source: Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office