Cambodia Inspects Infrastructure in Takeo Province, Focusing on Rural Development and Climate Resilience

Minister of Rural Development, Chhay Rithisen, inspected the quality and condition of three roads and one reservoir in Takeo Province. The inspection focused on infrastructure development in rural areas and adaptation to climate change. Two climate-resilient roads, which have recently completed construction, were examined. The first road, connecting Pon Village to Wat Kropum Chhuk Village, is a 6.78 km long DBST (Double Bituminous Surface Treatment) and concrete road, completed in January 2026. This road directly benefits 1,379 families, equivalent to 5,998 people, and indirectly benefits 3,173 families, equivalent to 13,063 people. The second road, connecting the Dam Doung area to National Road No. 111, is a 15.75 km long DBST and concrete road, completed in September 2025. It directly benefits 2,051 families, equivalent to 8,850 people, and indirectly benefits 1,692 families, equivalent to 7,623 people. These two roads are part of the Sustainable Rural Infrastructure Support Project for Farmer Markets and Agricultural Commercialization (SAAMBAT), funded by the Royal Government of Cambodia, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Asian Investment Fund of the European Union. During the inspection, the Minister instructed the construction company to improve damaged sections to ensure durability for the long-term benefit of the residents. Furthermore, the Minister inspected another road, from Wat Tralach to Run Village, a 7.80 km natural gravel road. This road connects several villages and aims to enhance connectivity from rural areas to urban centers, thereby promoting economic growth in rural regions. The Minister advised the Provincial Department of Rural Development to include this road in development partner projects for construction as a climate-resilient road. Finally, the Minister and his team inspected a community reservoir in Tonle Village, Tralach Commune. The reservoir measures 52 meters in length, 32 meters in width, and 5 meters in depth, and was constructed in 2024. It serves 98 families, equivalent to 465 people. The Minister emphasized the importance of ensuring water supply to support the livelihoods of the community members. These infrastructure developments are part of the Cambodian government's efforts to improve living standards and foster economic development in rural areas, with a particular emphasis on building resilient infrastructure to cope with the impacts of climate change.