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Work on That Luang esplanade beautification project speeds up

Construction of a four-lane road linking the rear of That Luang stupa to Khamphaengmeuang Road is speeding up as the project contractor hopes to complete the public facility before celebrations to mark the 450th anniversary of Vientiane as the nation's capital later this year.

The major public road enlargement project in the capital aims to make That Luang esplanade more beautiful as it will be used as the main venue for the historical celebration, which is scheduled to take place from November 15 to 21.

The government hopes that the celebration will serve to remind all Lao ethnic people, both those living in Laos and those abroad, of the nation's long history and to build pride, patriotism and solidarity as the country continues to develop. The Vientiane-based Phetthavone Construction Company reported last week that it would complete the road enlargement and construction project by October 30, one and a half months before the anniversary celebration is scheduled to take place.

At present, the company has completed relocation of families from the project site, enabling it to clear obstacles and making it easier for it to speed up construction work. The company is now constructing the road and drainage systems.

Vientiane Mayor Mr Sombath Yialeeher and a number of high ranking Vientiane officials visited the project site last weekend to encourage construction workers to work harder and ensure they complete the project on time.

The mayor also met with local residents who live around the project area. He explained the importance of the That Luang esplanade beautification and expansion project, one of the 21 priority projects Vientiane authorities are implementing in the lead-up to the anniversary celebrations.

Mr Sombath also welcomed comments from local residents nearby the project area so as capital authorities can improve project management.

Vientiane authorities initiated the That Luang esplanade expansion and beautification project several years ago after realising that increasing urban sprawl was threatening That Luang Stupa, a national symbol of Laos and a sacred site.

The capital authorities lacked adequate up-front funds to build the four-lane road linking the rear of That Luang Stupa to Khamphaengmeuang Road and to pay compensation to people required to move away from the project site and therefore allowed a private company to invest in the infrastructure project.

The relevant authority will use a proportion of its annual budget to repay the project construction cost and interest to the project investor over the next five years.

 

By Ekaphone Phouthonesy
(Latest Update August 20, 2010)