(VOVworld) – A workshop on drought and seawater intrusion prevention in the Mekong Delta opened on Wednesday in Can Tho City to discuss ways to save rice fields and ensure fresh water for local residents. Drought and seawater intrusion have impacted thousands of hectares under rice cultivation and caused drinking water shortages for thousands of farmers. Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said low water supplies led to drought and severe seawater intrusion in the past year, a severe natural calamity that has adversely impacted on agricultural production and people’s daily lives. He urged relevant ministries and sectors to find ways to mitigate impacts in this region, which is considered Vietnam’s key production area.