Siem Reap Province Unveils Comprehensive Land Use Master Plan to Preserve Angkor Heritage and Tonle Sap Lake

• 10 March 2026
• Local News
• 250 Views

In a significant move towards sustainable development, the Royal Government of Cambodia has initiated a comprehensive review of land use conditions and master plans across Siem Reap Province. The focus is prominently on the iconic Angkor site and the surrounding areas of Tonle Sap Lake. This decision was highlighted during a recent meeting held by the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction on March 2, 2026.

The meeting revealed that the Land Management and Urban Planning Committee is actively working on a strategic plan that will impact 114 villages within the Angkor World Heritage Site. The initiative aims to enhance planning across all communes in Regions 1, 2, and 3 surrounding Tonle Sap Lake. With an emphasis on preservation, the plan seeks to safeguard the heritage of Angkor while nurturing the livelihoods of local communities and contributing to the national economy.

According to the report presented, the Angkor World Heritage Site is divided into three zones: Zone 1, Zone 2, and Zone 3, which encompass distinct areas like Central Park, Banteay Srei, and Rolous. Land use within these areas has been meticulously categorized into six types: 1. Absolutely Protected Areas, 2. Buffer Areas, 3. Rural Village Areas, 4. Urban Village Areas, 5. Business Areas, 6. Agricultural Areas. Following a thorough review in 2024, the land areas for the three zones have been evaluated as follows: Zone 1 covers 436,879.11 hectares, Zone 2 spans 413,488.08 hectares, and Zone 3 encompasses 561,634.61 hectares.

This ambitious land use plan is not just about development; it reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. By carefully managing land use, the initiative aims to ensure that the heritage of Angkor and the ecosystem of Tonle Sap Lake are protected for future generations while also promoting economic growth and improving the livelihoods of local residents.

• MLMUPC
• Urbanization planning
• Angkor heritage