Provincial authorities have clarified that the houses currently being built and allocated to Cambodians who have been displaced by the border fighting of last year are intended as temporary shelters only, not permanent replacements for their homes.
The Banteay Meanchey provincial administration reported that residents from six villages in Ou Chrov and Thma Puok districts have been unable to return to their homes, which have been occupied by Thai troops.
“The affected areas include Chouk Chey and Prey Chan villages in O’Bei Choan commune, Ou Chrov district, as well as Samaki, Trapaing Samraong, Thnal Bambek and Banteay Mean Rith villages in Kouk Romiet commune, Thma Puok district,” it said.
“Thai military forces have fenced off areas with razor wire and placed shipping containers as barriers, preventing many people from accessing their land and homes,” it explained.
To address the living situation of displaced families, the government has allocated approximately 400 hectares of land in Slakram village andcommune, in Svay Chek district, for housing construction and essential infrastructure.
Authorities said that a number of houses have already been completed and are being distributed in phases through a lottery system, allowing families to relocate temporarily.
More than 800 displaced families have been provided with temporary shelter in the initial phase, while over 300 houses have already been completed.
The total number is expected to reach 3,000 units before the Khmer New Year. The shelters are equipped with water and electricity, with nearby schools and health centres ready to support the resident’s basic needs.
Banteay Meanchey deputy provincial governor Khlok Nuoy explained that the second round of allocations is scheduled for April 10.
“The second lottery will be held on April 10. The houses provided for displaced families are located on plots measuring 20 by 30 metres and include sanitation facilities,” he noted.
He added that the government will subsidise water and electricity costs for one year, with electricity usage capped at 30 kilowatts per household per month.
The provincial administration stressed that the allocation of land and housing does not constitute compensation or an exchange for residents’ original property.
Instead, it is a temporary measure while the government seeks a resolution with the Thai side.
the authorities added that once the issue is resolved, residents will be able to return to their original homes.
“The provision of land and housing is not an exchange for the land lost due to Thai military encroachment. It is only a temporary arrangement while awaiting a resolution between the Cambodian government and the Thai side. Once resolved, residents will return to their original homes,” said a statement from the administration.
