Siem Reap set for $150 million infrastructure upgrade

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen has agreed to invest 150 million US dollars from the national reserve funds to construct 38 roads in Siem Reap province. The PM added that the Siem Reap provincial town is crucial to serving tourism in the post-pandemic era. "Some 38 stretches of roads will be constructed in the town, and they will help improve living conditions for local people and help boost economic growth in the post-COVID-19 era," he announced on his official Facebook page. The road construction is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2021. The Khmer Times added that through the contribution of all ministries and institutions for reducing expenses, the government has saved more than $600 million to develop the country during the pandemic. During COVID-19, the popular temple town of Siem Reap has been harshly hit by the reduced number of tourists. The Angkor Archeological Park saw a drop of visitors between January-August 2020 of 74 per cent compared to the same period in 2019. Siem Reap and Angkor Wat have repeatedly won international travel and destination awards. The tourism “high season” usually runs from November to March when it’s dry and there is relatively cooler weather in Cambodia. Recently, hotels in Siem Reap were also recognised in Tripadvisor's international awards. During the postponed Khmer New Year from August 17 to 21 2020, the Ministry of Tourism said 214,047 people visited Siem Reap province. It is hoped the revival of international flights, domestic tourism and local holidays will boost tourism in Siem Reap.