The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) has commenced the preparation for the second phase of the Funan Techo Canal. This USD1.7 billion project, a collaboration between the Government of Cambodia, local conglomerate OCIC, and China’s CRBC, aims to enhance Cambodia’s waterway infrastructure and regional connectivity. After completing land demarcation and boundary marking for Phase 1, the inter-ministerial working group is finalising land measurement procedures and addressing impacts on affected citizens. Additionally, demining efforts are underway to ensure safe excavation.
Phase Two construction is also supported by cutting-edge technology, with drone-assisted data collection and 3D mapping ongoing. The project, which is expected to impact nearly 10,000 homes and several infrastructure elements, remains on track for completion by 2028. Despite additional requests from the Mekong River Commission for further documentation, government leaders, including Prime Minister Hun Manet, reaffirmed the commitment to meet the deadline.