VIENTIANE: The government is considering a plan to install toll gates on two major highways, as part of its two-day November monthly meeting, which kicked off on Thursday (Dec 11).
The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, will review the findings of a study on the proposed toll system on Road 13 South and Route 12, covering a combined distance of 418km.
The study assesses the impact of a proposed toll on Road 13 South from kilometre 71 to 346, a stretch of 275km between Bolikhamxay and Khammuan provinces. This is one of the country’s main roads linking the central and southern regions.
The other road under consideration is Route 12 between Thakhaek and the Laos-Vietnam border, stretching 143km.
During the meeting, participants will hear reports on data collection, traffic flow, proposed toll fees, and the scheme’s expected economic and social impacts, before offering comments and considering the next steps.
The meeting is also reviewing eight newly drafted decrees.
These include a Decree on Fines and the Application of Other Measures against Violators of Laws and Regulations Regarding State Assets; a Decree on Salaries, Benefits and Other Policies for Members of Representative Offices; a Decree on Preventing and Resolving Financial Crises; a Decree on Fines and Other Measures against Violators of Laws and Regulations Regarding Tobacco Control; a Decree on the Organisation and Activities of the National Water Management Committee; a Decree on Poverty Thresholds and Development Standards; and a Decree on Fertilisers.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister said the regional and international situation remains tense, with military conflicts, economic and trade pressures, and border issues creating new challenges. These problems continue to disrupt global growth and make the already difficult economic climate more volatile.
Laos cannot avoid the direct and indirect impacts of these events, he said, so close monitoring and timely action are needed to protect the livelihoods of ordinary citizens, civil servants and state employees, and to support national socio-economic development.
He called on government members to study each issue carefully and provide clear, concise and practical comments so the meeting could achieve its goals.
Deputy Prime Ministers, government members, and representatives from ministries and organisations are attending the meeting in person, while leaders from Vientiane and the provinces are participating online. - Vientiane Times/ANN
