Four ICC-Preah Vihear experts inspect restoration efforts at Koh Ker archaeological site on March 16. NaPV
A team of four experts from the International Coordinating Committee (ICC) Preah Vihear inspected conservation and development efforts at the Preah Vihear and Koh Ker archaeological sites from March 16-17, aiming to provide official recommendations to Cambodian experts during the committee’s forthcoming annual meeting on March 19.
Kong Puthika, director-general of the National Authority for Preah Vihear (NAPV), stated on March 17 that specialists have consistently adhered to the guidance of the team, which routinely monitors the progression of sustainability and growth at both sites in Preah Vihear province.
He explained that the recommendations are formulated during the ICC’s annual meeting, noting that the group conducts biannual inspections as part of this process, with their recent visit serving as preparation for the upcoming gathering where they will advise on the conservation of the archaeological sites.
Puthika added that the team surveyed various aspects of the Koh Ker temple complex’s restoration and improvement, including archaeological work on the temples and tourism-related projects.
He said that following site inspections, the experts suggested several measures: the conservation of Banteay Pi Choan, Krachab, Krahorm and Koh Ker temples; an assessment of the condition of an ancient dam; and the examination of archaeological sites on the dam’s summit and at the palace in the west of Andong Preng.
Puthika said these steps are intended to facilitate the creation of a new ring road and a parking area for visitors.
“In addition to accepting these recommendations, we’ve also deliberated over the technical aspects and our execution at various locations within the Koh Ker temple complex. This is to compile elements for official recommendations at the upcoming meeting,” he said.
The team also assessed work at the Preah Vihear Temple, including the restoration and repair of the northern staircase, funded by the US embassy, and the fifth gate’s conservation and repair, supported by the Indian government.
“The primary objective of the experts is to determine whether our conservation and development efforts align with international standards. Should there be any uncertainty, they will provide guidance and instruction to our local experts,” he explained.
At the same time, groups of experts from ICC Angkor/Sambor Prei Kuk recently visited the sites, in Siem Reap and Kampong Thom provinces respectively, as well.
At Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, they assessed various sites, including the west Spean Harl in front of Angkor Wat Temple, the northeast moat bank, the east gate, the south naga railing, the second layer of the structure, the northeast tower, the south pond, Ta Prohm Kel and Phnom Bakheng Temple.
At the Sambor Prei Kuk temple site in Kampong Thom, the group evaluated the renovation of the Yeay Poan, lion and Kbal Chrouk temples and the Y-octagonal tower.
They also reviewed several development projects, such as the construction of a road through the temple area, parking facilities and enhancements to the tour line.
