Cambodia Launches Ambitious Border Ring Road Project: A $27 Million Infrastructure Initiative

On the morning of November 1, 2024, the much-anticipated border infrastructure project in Cambodia officially began, marking a significant m...

On the morning of November 1, 2024, the much-anticipated border infrastructure project in Cambodia officially began, marking a significant milestone in the construction of the border ring road. According to an announcement by the Border Infrastructure Fund (FBID), initial mobilization efforts commenced as vehicles and equipment were transported to the designated construction site. This development signals the start of an ambitious plan to enhance connectivity along the border regions.

The border infrastructure project includes constructing a comprehensive ring road network, complemented by several access roads to strengthen connections to the border areas. This ring road system spans approximately 250 kilometers, with Mondulkiri province accounting for about 147.52 kilometers, and Ratanakkiri province contributing roughly 102.48 kilometers to the total. The entire construction phase is projected to be completed within 30 months, with the final stages expected around May 2027.

In support of this project, the Cambodian government established the Border Infrastructure Fund on August 22, 2024. This initiative aimed to engage patriotic Cambodians in border area development through voluntary contributions. For a period of 66 days, the fund received generous donations totaling nearly $27 million from philanthropists across various sectors, showcasing widespread support from the Cambodian public. The fund officially closed on October 31, 2024.'

On October 30, 2024, Samdech Moha Bovathibodi Hun Manet, Head of the Royal Government of Cambodia, issued a directive to form a dedicated working group to manage the Border Infrastructure Fund. This group, led by Mr. Kim Bunthan, Minister Delegate accompanying the Prime Minister, will oversee the project's progress and ensure alignment with development goals. The establishment of this working group underscores the government’s commitment to fostering cross-border development and enhancing national infrastructure for future generations.