PHNOM PENH: The Government of Japan has agreed to provide a total of US $527,122 for infrastructure projects, including the construction of bridges in Kandal and Kratie provinces, and irrigation systems in Banteay Meanchey, to be used to promote development in provincial communities of Cambodia.

The Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia, Mikami Masahiro, said at the signing ceremony of the grant agreement that the first planned project is the construction of a concrete bridge in Koh Thom district, Kandal province, with more than 120,000 dollars allocated for its construction. This project will replace an old wooden bridge, built around 70 years ago, with a new concrete bridge for the benefit of the people traveling through the province for the transportation of agricultural products to student markets, schools and so on.

The second project is the construction of a flood-resistant concrete bridge in Koulab commune, Chit Borei district, Kratie province, with a budget of more than US $130,000. Through this project, people in four villages, who are often unable to travel from their homes during the rainy season, will have access to public facilities throughout the year. In addition, the project will enhance farmers' activities by providing safe transportation routes for agricultural products.

The third project is the repair of two dams and sluice gates, as well as the construction of a new sluice gate of the irrigation system, in Banteay Meanchey province, with an allocated budget of more than US $260,000 to supply water for agriculture and stable daily use. This project will directly benefit more than 4,000 people affected by floods and droughts, and indirectly benefit more than 40,000 people who experience occasional water shortages due to water drainage from the upper dam.