Large reservoir reinforcement projects to minimize the threat of bursting dams will be complete by 2015, according to the central government's plan, China Economic Weekly reported Tuesday.

The Ministry of Water Resources announced that by reinforcing reservoirs, it has already alleviated the risk of flooding for 637 cities above county level, 144 million residents and 161 million mu (10.7 million hectares) of farmland.

More than 40,000 reservoirs, most constructed between the 1950s and 1970s, are exposed to danger or have hidden risks. The majority of dams are located in the countryside and pose serious threats to rural communities.

The country will complete 5,400 Small Level I key projects, which started last year, before the flood season in 2012. The 15,900 Small Level II key projects, started in April, must be completed by the end of 2013, and the 25,000 Small Level II ordinary projects will be finished by the end of 2015.