Thailand to Build First Permanent Border Fence with Cambodia

Picture courtesy of The Nation

Thailand is set to construct its first permanent border fence with Cambodia this year, an initiative confirmed by the Royal Thai Army (RTA). The construction will commence near Aranyaprathet, aiming to address ongoing security issues along the shared boundary.

The 10-kilometre fence will be erected near boundary markers 50 and 51 in Aranyaprathet, located in Sa Kaeo province. This development follows a joint agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, with construction expected to start this year, pending approval from the National Security Council (NSC).

On August 28, General Manas Chandee, Chief of Staff of the RTA, led a team on a survey of the terrain from markers 48 to 51, stretching from Ban Pa Rai to Ban Tha Kham. The visit aimed to assess the groundwork for the new border barrier near the bustling Poipet crossing.

While this section has been agreed upon, other disputed segments will see temporary measures implemented. The RTA plans to install a road alongside the border, a triple-layer concertina wire fence, and CCTV coverage wherever accessible. These measures aim to enhance troop mobility, improve patrol operations, and deter unlawful entry.

Major General Wanchana Sawasdee, Deputy Spokesperson for the RTA, explained that the move directly addresses public concerns.

“We aim to protect the country and respond to issues like scams, call centre gangs, and human trafficking.”

Officials believe that clearing forested areas and fencing natural crossing points will significantly hinder criminal activities. They’ve assured the public that funding issues won't impede progress, with work set to begin “immediately” once given the green light by the NSC.

Consultations with local communities affected by the development will be held, and officials are optimistic about public support for the project in the interest of national security. Reports from The Nation and Sorayuth Suthassanachinda's Facebook page indicate that community backing is expected.

In a show of public enthusiasm, some citizens have proposed crowdfunding to finance the project. While appreciative, officials stated that any public contributions would require legal review.

The RTA emphasises that this initiative is not merely about physical barriers; it is a strong message that Thailand’s borders will no longer be easy targets for scammers and smugglers.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-29