The Thatkhao Water Treatment Plant in Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital on 2 April 2026. (Laotian Times)
Residents in several areas of Vientiane have reported prolonged disruptions to tap water supply, with some communities saying their water has not been running for weeks.
In Khamngoy village in the Xaysettha District, residents said tap water has been unavailable for more than a month, raising concerns about access to clean water during the hot season.
The problem is not limited to one location. A resident from Sivilay village in Xaythany District said on Facebook that their area had been without tap water for nearly three weeks.
Authorities have acknowledged the shortage and said efforts are under way to address the issue. On April 2, the Vientiane Water Supply State Enterprise began operations at the new Thatkhao Water Treatment Plant, a facility aimed at strengthening the capital’s water infrastructure. Located in Sisattanak District along the Mekong River, the plant has a production capacity of 20,000 cubic metres of water per day. Construction began in mid-2025 and the facility is now fully operational, supplying water to the city’s distribution system.
Officials say the plant is expected to improve water access in several nearby communities, including Dongpalan, Phonsinouan, Phonthan and Saphanthong, and may also support parts of the neighbouring Chanthabuly and Xaysettha districts. The development comes as Vientiane faces recurring water shortages, particularly between March and May when temperatures rise and water levels in the Mekong River fall to seasonal lows.
According to the Department of Water Supply, the city currently produces about 370,000 cubic metres of water per day, while demand is estimated at around 400,000 cubic metres.
Another facility under construction in Thapha village is more than 90 percent complete and is expected to add a further 20,000 cubic metres per day. Meanwhile, the Chinaimo Water Plant in Sisattanak district is being upgraded, with capacity set to increase from 80,000 to 120,000 cubic metres per day by 2028.
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