5th Lao-Thai Mekong bridge to be built in Bolikhamsay

(KPL) The governments of Laos and Thailand have planned to construct the 5th Lao-Thai Mekong bridge between Ban Kouay in Parksanh district, Bolikhamsay province, and Ban Houayseuam in Buengkan province ( Thailand).

The construction of the 5th Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge was initiated in 2010. the investment in the project would be 50 per cent for each government.

"However, both sides will discuss the project again this month and if the proposed construction schedule was approved, the construction would be commenced in 2014," said Head of the Provincial Public Works and Transport Service of Bolikhamsay, Mr. Nouansavanh Sengmany.

The presence of the bridge would result in more investment flow into the province, mostly in hydro electricity area, according to Head of the Provincial Planning and Investment Service of Bolikhamsay, Mr. Bounma Boutchaleun.

The construction of 10 more hydropower plants in Bolikhansay province is potentially possible.

Besides to the hydropower development, processing industry and agriculture are increasing attractive to foreign investors, according to the official.

Mr. Bounma said that there were 169 government investment projects to be implemented this year with an investment of over 50 billion kip and most of the investment budget would go to basic infrastructure including roads, irrigation schemes, and education.