(Kampong Cham): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed that construction of the Funan Techo Canal is progressing as planned to improve Cambodia's transport network and enhance inland waterway freight transportation.

The premier spoke on Tuesday (Jul. 7) during an official inauguration of National Road No. 7 (Skun-Kampong Cham) in Kampong Cham Province.

"We will continue to develop our waterways, particularly the Funan Canal, which will connect the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake to the sea. In the future, agricultural products will no longer have to rely solely on road transport; water can ship them directly," Prime Minister Hun Manet said.

The prime minister said the canal will enable farmers and businesses to transport goods by water, reducing logistics costs and improving the competitiveness of Cambodian products.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei also announced plans to rehabilitate waterways from Phnom Penh to Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Cham, and eventually Kratie Province. A multi-purpose port is under construction in Kratie, while additional river ports are being planned to support cargo transport. Waterways in the Tonle Sap region will also be upgraded.

He added that Cambodia's long-term transport strategy integrates roads, waterways, and railways. The government will continue upgrading existing railway lines while studying future rail expansion projects to improve cargo movement, ease congestion, and lower transportation costs.
 
The Funan Techo Canal, a strategic inland waterway project, will span approximately 180 kilometres, linking the Mekong River to the sea through a network of canals and natural rivers across Phnom Penh, Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep provinces.
=FRESH NEWS