Group 78's problems continue

The Phnom Penh Post
Wednesday, 09 September 2009 15:02 May Titthara

Residents say homes in Dangkor district still lack water and electricty.

FAMILIES who were evicted from the Group 78 riverside area in July may have found new homes, but many are still lacking basic clean water systems and electricity, former residents said Monday.

Lim Sambo said that after agreeing to US$8,000 compensation from City Hall following their eviction, many families accepted plots in Trapaing Anchanh, Dangkor district, the government's proposed relocation site more than 20 kilometres from their old homes in Tonle Bassac commune, Chamkarmon district. Others bought land in Kork Roka commune, closer to the city centre, but are now experiencing problems.

"We constructed a small shelter, but our problem is that we have no water system or electrical supply," he said. "We use water from a pond."

Sim Nhim, another former Group 78 resident, told the Post Monday that she moved to Kork Roka expecting clean water and electricity, only to find her new home lacking both.

"We have written a letter to ask for help from [Phnom Penh Deputy Governor] Mann Chhoeun, but we have not received an answer yet," she said.

Mann Chhoeun could not be reached for comment Tuesday.