27/08/2008
Wanderlust
Protestors are mounting a last-ditch attempt to prevent the iconic Boeung Kak Lake in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh being filled in.
Almost all of the lake, a famous spot for sunset watching, is due to be filled in and developed into new shops, hotels and a hospital.
But the local people who live on the lake say the government has leased the land illegally.
Many locals run guesthouses, restaurants and shops on the shore and on platforms on the lake itself.
They claim the compensation they’re being offered isn’t enough and relocation plans aren’t adequate.
The local government claims the new development is needed for the good of the city.
The project to fill in the lake is expected to take 18 months.
If you're going to Cambodia soon, take in the view while you still can.
Have you visited Boeung Kak? What do you feel about the development plans? Share your thoughts here on the Grapevine travel forum at our community website goWander.com
Almost all of the lake, a famous spot for sunset watching, is due to be filled in and developed into new shops, hotels and a hospital.
But the local people who live on the lake say the government has leased the land illegally.
Many locals run guesthouses, restaurants and shops on the shore and on platforms on the lake itself.
They claim the compensation they’re being offered isn’t enough and relocation plans aren’t adequate.
The local government claims the new development is needed for the good of the city.
The project to fill in the lake is expected to take 18 months.
If you're going to Cambodia soon, take in the view while you still can.
Have you visited Boeung Kak? What do you feel about the development plans? Share your thoughts here on the Grapevine travel forum at our community website goWander.com
1 comment:
i don't think the gov't is destroying the lakes that seem to surround phnom penh, they are just better managing it for the bright future of our capital city, phnom penh in order to make it one of the most beautiful and modern cities in the world. however, the gov't's responsibility is to make sure people are being compensating fairly for their relocation or move, and maybe gov't and others can teach these people to better managing their money too so not to waste their hard-earned money on gambling, drinking, prostitution and other splurges. invest it wisely so they can make more money from it. god bless all.
Post a Comment