(Kandal): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted that failure to prioritise the construction of sewerage system facilities could have serious consequences for public health. He reaffirmed that enhancing the living standards and health of the population remains a fundamental responsibility of the Royal Government.
The premier spoke on Tuesday (May 6) at the groundbreaking ceremony for the sewerage system development project in Ta Khmau Town, Kandal province.
On this occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet stressed that the sewerage system development project will deliver numerous benefits to the community, particularly in terms of public health and environmental protection. By reducing the risk of disease transmission and preserving the environment, the project forms part of the government’s broader efforts to promote the health and well-being of the people, especially those residing in and around Ta Khmau Town. He reiterated that healthy citizens are national assets, while poor health places a burden on families and the state. Therefore, public health improvement remains a key government priority.
“The land we are sitting on today was once a low-value field, perhaps only measurable in square metres and holding little socio-economic importance. But in 36 months, it will be transformed into a sewerage system facility serving 10,000 households. This number is expected to rise to 15,000 households in ten years and 20,000 in twenty years. This transformation represents the conversion of low-value land into a high-value facility that supports the health of tens of thousands of people in the future,” the premier underscored.
“While the land might be sold at a high price, its value as a public health facility is far greater—by improving health outcomes and enhancing the value of the surrounding area. A well-developed water, sewerage, and sewerage system in Ta Khmau will elevate the town, making it more liveable and attractive to residents,” the premier continued
Samdech Thipadei added, “This is a step-by-step national development initiative, built upon principles of sustainability, clear planning, and a shared vision to benefit the people. This clean water processing facility is part of a USD 90 million investment, including 125 kilometres of sewer pipelines and seven pumping stations. Without such infrastructure, the environment would deteriorate, and the ensuing public health and environmental costs would be severe.”
On the occasion, the premier also expressed his sincere gratitude to the government and people of South Korea for their strong cooperation in Cambodia’s development across key sectors such as investment, trade, tourism, education, healthcare, employment, and infrastructure—including the provision of job opportunities for many Cambodian workers under favourable conditions.
Samdech Thipadei highlighted the importance of the 28-year diplomatic relationship between Cambodia and South Korea, restored through the efforts of Samdech Techo, which has brought significant benefits to the nation and its people.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Hun Manet called on KUMHO-TECHCROSS, the company tasked with construction, and DOHWA-SEOYOUNG, responsible for technical oversight, to uphold high professional standards in both construction and technical inspection. He also urged understanding and patience from members of the public affected by the project.
It should be noted that the Ta Khmau Town sewerage system project is valued at over USD 90 million, funded through a concessional loan and grant aid from the Government of the Republic of Korea, alongside counterpart funding from the Royal Government of Cambodia to cover impacts and tax obligations. The project is scheduled to last 36 months and is expected to be completed by 2027.
=FRESH NEWS
