At least 251 families will be relocated from areas that need to be cleared for the expansion of the That Luang stupa fence (kommalien) for next year’s anniversary celebrations in Vientiane.
The 93 billion kip project including the 63 billion kip compensation budget for affected families is one of 21 prioritised projects set to mark the 450th anniversary of Vientiane as the capital of Laos.
The National Preparatory Committee for the celebration of the 450th anniversary plans to relocate people living to the south and east of the stupa, primarily in Nonkhor village, Xaysettha district, and Phonsomboun village in Xaythany district.
Standing Deputy President of the National Preparatory Committee, Mr Somvandy Nathavong, said last week the committee is now working to relocate people from the project site around the south and east sides of the stupa.
An official said the kommalien will be extended by about 60 metres to the east and 80-100 metres on the southern side. “We are forming a committee to negotiate with the people who will be relocated to discuss together an appropriate solution,” Mr Somvandy said.
He said the committee will seek to construct better houses for those relocated.
“An appropriate solution is expected to be sought by December before the start of construction in January,” he said. Mr Somvandy, who is also member of the National Assembly for Vientiane and Vice Mayor of Vientiane, spoke to media on Thursday while attending the assembly’s 8th ordinary session of the 6th legislature.
He said the 63 million kip compensation budget will include finding land suitable for relocation and rebuilding houses, but said further details will be discussed.
The capital of Laos was transferred from Luang Prabang (now Luang Prabang province) to Vientiane by King Xaysetthathilath in 1560.
By Souksakhone Vaenkeo
November 24, 2009
Vientiane Times
