On the afternoon of February 26, 2025, Nam Theun 1 Power Company Limited (NT1PC), led by Mr. Bounnhang Phengsouvanh, Government Relations Advisor, and including Mr. Somphone Phanthavong, Deputy Director of Operation & Maintenance, along with members of the NT1PC Social and Environmental Team, conducted an inspection of the asphalt road construction project in Phonchaleun Village, Pakkading District, Bolikhamxay Province. They were joined by the Secretariat of the NT1 Community Development Fund (CDF) Management Committee, headed by Mr. Khamsing Sayphouvong, Deputy Head of the Energy and Mining Department of Bolikhamxay Province, and other provincial and district committee members, totaling 16 people. Following an on-site inspection, the team convened a meeting to discuss the project’s progress, address emerging issues, and improve technical aspects of the work.
This crucial road project, valued at 11,365,528,327 LAK, is funded by the NT1PC Community Development Fund and is being constructed by Phouthone Comprehensive Development Company Limited. Construction commenced in mid-December 2024 and is projected to span 18 months. According to the progress report by Mr. Onkeo, a field work monitoring technician from the Pakkading District Public Works and Transport Office, the project had reached 32.25% completion. Progress achieved so far includes site preparation, encompassing clearing the road’s path and drainage areas, grading, compaction, the construction of water drainage systems across the road, and subgrade compaction.
During the monitoring, several challenges were brought to light. Notably, the construction necessitated the relocation of existing water tap infrastructure, resulting in additional costs. The team recommended that the District Public Works Officer develop a plan to monitor the project’s progress against the budget disbursement. They also emphasized the importance of contractors paying greater attention to environmental and social aspects to mitigate the construction’s impact on nearby communities.
This inspection, conducted in accordance with the contract between the Department of Energy and Mines of Bolikhamxay Province and Phouthone Comprehensive Development Company Limited, represents a 30% progress check. A second inspection will be conducted upon 100% completion of the construction work.