Phnom penh: Cambodia's ambitious Funan Techo Canal project is on the verge of completing a crucial phase: the verification of its alignment and the installation of symbolic boundary markers. Authorities anticipate finalising this stage in the near future, paving the way for the project's next steps.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, who is also the First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), led a high-level delegation this morning to inspect project sites. He was joined by the Minister of Public Works and Transport, officials from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, and the governors of Kampot and Kep provinces. The group's mission was to confirm the canal's precise alignment, install the remaining symbolic boundary markers, and assess planned supporting infrastructure.
The delegation began its visit in Kampong Trach district, Kampot province, where they inspected and installed symbolic boundary markers along National Road No. 33. Following this, they moved to Angkol commune in Kep province's Damnak Chang-er district to examine proposed locations for the canal's bridge crossing and ship locks.
So far, approximately 114 kilometres of the planned 174.5-kilometre canal have had their alignment verified, data collected, and boundary markers installed. This covers sections in Kandal, Takeo, and Kampot provinces, with work in Kep province soon to follow. Preliminary reports indicate that 1,079 boundary markers have been placed: 387 in Kandal, 550 in Takeo, and 142 in Kampot. Work is actively ongoing in Kampot and Kep provinces and is expected to conclude shortly.
The Funan Techo Canal project officially broke ground on Aug. 5, 2024, presided over by the Prime Minister and First Lady. Since then, the project has progressed steadily through sequential phases, adhering to its established action plan. The mobilisation of heavy machinery and the official start of construction are slated for the dry season at the end of 2025, contingent upon the Ministry of Economy and Finance completing compensation payments to residents affected by the project.
This strategic infrastructure initiative aims to significantly enhance waterway connectivity, bolster irrigation capabilities, and stimulate economic development throughout Cambodia's southern provinces.