KPL
The Fourth Greater Mekong Subregion Corridor Towns Development Project (GMS4) in Thakhek District, Khammouane Province, has reached 95.9% completion, with contractors and project teams working to complete the remaining works on schedule and to the required standards.
(KPL) A joint review team conducted a field inspection on September 30 to assess progress and implementation of three major sub-projects: the stormwater drainage system at the Pak Siment Sluice Gate, Mekong Riverbank Protection Works, and heritage conservation in Old Town Thakhek, from the old post office to Fountain Square.
The team was led by Mr. Bounta Onnavong, Director General of the Department of Housing and Urban Planning under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport; Mr. Phoxay Khattiyalath, Head of the Khammouane Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport; and Ms. Sodalay Souannavong, Senior Project Officer and Review Team Leader representing the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The delegation received progress updates, reviewed construction challenges and inspected compliance with social and environmental safeguards.
The riverbank protection component comprises two revised contracts with a combined value of more than US$13.07 million. Contract 1, valued at US$8.63 million and implemented by LSM Construction Sole Co., Ltd., covers several sections from the customs pier to Houay Sakham, as well as areas in Lao Pho Xai, Pak Siment–Lao Pho Kham and Pak Siment–Muang Soum.
Contract 2, valued at US$4.45 million and implemented by Sengmichai Comprehensive Co., Ltd. in Zone B, covers the section from the customs pier to the water supply reservoir in Jomkeo Village.
Mr. Bounta called on contractors and supervision teams to accelerate the remaining works while maintaining construction quality and standards so that local communities can benefit from the completed infrastructure as soon as possible.
Mr. Phoxay said the GMS4 project is important for addressing urban drainage problems, reducing flood and riverbank erosion risks, and preserving Thakhek’s historical architectural heritage. He reaffirmed the provincial department’s continued support and coordination.
Ms. Sodalay commended the progress made by the government, contractors and other stakeholders and reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to working with the Lao government to achieve the project’s objectives.
The GMS4 project is supported by a US$54 million ADB grant to improve urban infrastructure, promote economic activity and strengthen climate resilience in corridor towns in Laos, including Thakhek District in Khammouane Province and Paksan District in Bolikhamxay Province. The overall project is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2027.
KPL
