Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has unveiled plans to construct a high-security fence along the Thai-Cambodian border to enhance national security and limit illegal crossings. The project, managed by the Army Development Command, will feature a reinforced concrete fence with steel mesh and concertina wire, costing 8.66 million baht per kilometer. This initiative aims to tackle issues like trafficking and smuggling, although its substantial cost has sparked public debate.

 

The fence will be built using robust materials, resulting in a construction cost of 7.36 million baht per kilometer. To further support military operations, a patrol road composed of compacted laterite will be constructed alongside, adding 1.3 million baht per kilometer to the total expenditure. Despite its ambitious scope, officials have yet to confirm the project's exact length or completion timeframe.

 

The announcement has generated significant discourse online, with critics questioning the financial implications amid ongoing discussions about military expenditure and infrastructure transparency. However, proponents see the fence as a necessary measure to curb illegal activities at the border, emphasizing its long-term benefits for national security.

 

In parallel developments, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has addressed Thai-Cambodian border tensions, calling for the withdrawal of heavy weapons and emphasizing civilian safety. His directives followed meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 9, aimed at setting the stage for future negotiations with Cambodia.

 

Key Takeaways

• Thai Army to build a border fence costing 8.66 million baht/km.
• Project includes a patrol road, enhancing military operations.
• Mixed reactions have emerged over the project's cost and necessity.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-10-17

 

 

Build that wall. 😁

12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

although its substantial cost has sparked public debate.

 

But it includes backhander in a brown envelope.