The government recently requested a change in administrative boundaries between Phnom Penh and Kandal province by re-allocating 302ha from Kandal’s Takhmao town to the capital’s Dangkor district.

A letter signed by Prime Minister Hun Sen and sent to acting head of state Say Chhum on October 19 said the move will help the development of the new satellite cities of Boeung Tompun and Boeung Choeung Ek. It will also make the management of the district more efficient and improve public services.

The proposed re-allocated land is located in Stung Chrov and Prek Tapov villages in Doeum Mean commune; Prek Anhchanh village in Prek Russey commune; Prek Long village in Takdol commune; and Bat Ta Chi village in Prek Hou commune in Kandal province.

The letter said 177 familes lived in the areas.

The government said as part of the plan, the Kandal Provincial Administration requested a relocation of over 2ha in the capital’s Chak Angre Krom commune – where the Botum Sakor pagoda currently stands – to Takhmao town’s Doeum Mean commune.

Takhmao town governor Nou Sovannara told The Post on October 25 that the move was merely a subdivision of parts of the villages in Kandal to the Dangkor district administration.

He added that people living in the area will receive the proper documentation they need confirming the change of management of the land.

Dangkor district governor Kim Nhep declined to comment.

According to Article 6 of the Law on the Administration of capital, provinces, towns, and districts, the establishment, deletion or amendment of boundaries and naming of provinces shall be decided by Royal Decree at the behest of the Prime Minister after a request from the Ministry of Interior.