PHNOM PENH: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced today that construction on the Funan Techo Canal will begin this August.

“This project is a major symbol of national pride and a historic achievement for Cambodia,” he declared during a ceremony in Kampong Speu province.

Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol emphasized that the project's impact will be minimal and that extensive studies by nearly 50 experts have confirmed significant economic benefits. These benefits are expected to span trade, tourism, urban planning, construction, and more.

The 1.7 billion USD canal, stretching 180 kilometers long and varying in width from 80 to 100 meters, will feature two designated lanes for water traffic. Construction is anticipated to take roughly four years.

The canal will connect Prek Takeo on the Mekong River to Kep province on the coast, crossing four provinces and impacting the lives of an estimated 1.6 million people residing along its banks.