The government of Japan announced on Tuesday it will provide US$162,720 to the Ratanakkiri Department of Public Works and Transport for the construction of two bridges in the province, according to a press release earlier this week.

Approximately $97,216 will be used to construct a concrete bridge to replace the current temporary structure at O’Kob point in Andong Meas district. A grant of $65,504 will finance a concrete bridge at O’Totoeung point in Banlung district, replacing a wooden bridge that villagers have had to repair on several occasions. Collectively, the two projects are expected to provide access to the communities throughout the year and improve conditions for 11,000 villagers.

The Japanese government is also funding the upcoming construction of the two-kilometre Neak Leung bridge between Kandal and Prey Veng provinces, which has an estimated cost of $131 million.