Laos- Thailand bridge project requires funding

Laos is seeking funding assistance from sources in Thailand to help pay for a 1.35km bridge project spanning the Mekong River to connect the two countries. The construction of the bridge is expected to cost around US$121-$125 million. The cost of the project will be split, with Thailand paying for around 2/3 of the bridge construction and Laos paying the remaining 1/3. The new link will connect Borikhamxay Province in Laos with Bung Kan Province in Thailand and this will be the fifth such crossing between the two nations. The bridge will feature two lanes in either direction as well as facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. Construction is expected to commence in 2019 and the work should take three years to complete.