Agriculture Ministry: Phnom Tamao Development Safe to Wildlife & Not for Private Benefit

• Sommana Yan
• 5 August 2022
• Local News
• 1939 Views

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has rejected all accusations over the Phnom Tamao land development, clarifying that the development is outside the wildlife sanctuary zone, and does not cause negative impacts on the environment, and most importantly is not a private business transaction.

According to the announcement on 04 August, the purpose of the development is to make better use of the surrounding area outside the Phnom Tamao Zoological Park and Wildlife Rescue Center (PTWRC) to attract more tourists.

The report added the area planned for the development is full of sand, not fertilised enough for growing crops, and not a habitat for endangered animals or plant species. Thus, it is an ideal spot to be transformed into a new city nearby the new airport and the Tonle Bati tourist attraction.

“The development of this area is not a private business transaction, as accused by environmental activists and the public, but rather is a sustainable development of the area outside the park,” said the statement.

“There is no endangered wildlife in this area as mentioned, while the PTWRC is 100% safe from the development. 400ha PTWRC is protected by a fence and no wildlife will be affected by the construction,” the statement added.

The ministry’s statement comes after negative reactions to the new development plan.

• Laws and Regulation