“Bridges and roads play an important role. They are the veins that stimulate national economic development by helping people to transport goods throughout the region and indeed the world. They sustain the economic growth of society,” said Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sun Chanthol.

He presided over the February 18 inauguration of the Bot Domdai Bridge in Koh Thom district, Kandal province. The bridge was funded by Japanese grants.

He thanked Japanese ambassador Atsushi Ueno and the Japanese people and government for the assistance provided by the Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (KUSANONE).

“Japan is more than a friend to Cambodia. It is an indispensable development partner,” he said.

Bot Domdai Bridge measures 18m by 4m, and is built from concrete and steel. PHOTO SUPPLIED

Some of the most notable Japanese funded projects include the Tsubasa Bridge, the first Chroy Changvar Bridge, the Kizuna Bridge, seven bridges in Prey Veng and Kratie provinces, National Road 5, a stretch of National Road 1, and several wastewater treatment projects.

Bot Domdai Bridge measures 18m by 4m, and is built from concrete and steel. He also praised repairs to school buildings at Wat Chroy Primary School, which were completed by a national working group in Loeuk Dek commune, Koh Thom district, Kandal province.

“This year, the ministry will oversee the construction of several new roads, including National Road 23 from Loeuk Dek commune, Koh Thom district to Loeuk Dek district, National Road 14,” added Chanthol.

The original timber Bot Domdai Bridge was built in 1962, and had become dilapidated. Construction of the new bridge began in March last year, and was completed on July 1.

Wat Chroy Primary School was built in 1996.