The National Assembly opened debate on next year’s budget draft on Saturday afternoon. Talk focused on provincial infrastructure. Members from rural seats asked more questions than usual.
Lawmakers from rice-growing areas asked whether money to repair national roads and irrigation canals will reach distant districts. They pointed to roads damaged in the wet season and canals that run short of water.
A representative of the Ministry of Economy and Finance said the government will spend on named projects and will not push debt past the set ceiling. Funds will go to projects that already have technical studies.
Independent economists noted that rural roads and water works can cut the cost of moving paddy and farm goods. They asked for a public progress table by province.
A vote on the draft is due next week after the budget committee meets. The Assembly will also ask ministries for a district-by-district list of road and canal projects.
