Workers repair a section of National Road 6A in Bakheng village of the capital’s Chroy Changvar district ahead of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. Hong Menea
Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth urged the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to expedite its infrastructure projects, as they – particularly road construction plans – are imperative to the Kingdom’s economic growth.
Pornmoniroth, who is also deputy prime minister, was speaking at the closure of the public works ministry’s annual meeting held on February 16 to review its 2022 work results and direction set for 2023.
He congratulated the ministry on its achievements, but expressed concerns over delays in the construction of some infrastructure projects.
“Despite an overall improvement, I’ve noted that some key projects are not adhering to their planned schedules, and some of the goals that were set last year have not been met,” he said.
“Progress on national roads 2 and 22 is slow, and there are some quality issues to address. I hope the leadership of the ministry will work hard to expedite these projects so we can inaugurate them this year,” he added.
He urged public works ministry officials to focus on overcoming any challenges they encountered, as their work is strategically important restoration and expansion of the Kingdom’s economy.
In order to encourage the ministry to turn challenges into opportunities and improve the business environment, as well as strengthen Cambodia’s competitiveness, Pornmoniroth offered several recommendations.
“The [public works] ministry should work more closely with the Supreme National Economic Council to complete the comprehensive intermodal transport master plan for Cambodia. This includes the ongoing construction of infrastructure projects. Priority should be assigned to roads which connect with internal and regional transport frameworks,” he said.
“Cross-border transportation should be improved via finding win-win solutions with neighbouring countries. Congestion at international border crossings must be addressed. I recommend improved dialogue with Thai and Vietnamese authorities to accomplish this,” he added.
“In addition, the ministry should take into account the impact of climate change on infrastructure requirements,” he continued.
He requested that the ministry prepare comprehensive reports on the proposed northern Phnom Penh-Poipet railway project, as well as new expressways and roads, in order to allow the government to review them in detail.
In addition, he suggested they work more closely with the relevant institutions to build and develop infrastructure, sewage and drainage systems.
Pornmoniroth said some developments may require the drafting of new regulations or laws. Wastewater fees may need to be integrated into water bills to support the maintenance, construction and expansion of sewer and wastewater treatment systems some cities and towns, he said.
“It is important to remember that large scale infrastructure development will be a catalyst for the promotion of trade and overall economic growth,” he concluded.
