Vientiane: The Prime Minister has outlined key priorities for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (PWT) as part of the implementation of the 2026-2030 national development plan. The focus will be on infrastructure, urban development, transportation modernization, environmental management, and digital transformation.
According to Lao News Agency, the Prime Minister instructed the sector to prioritize systematic upgrades and maintenance of major economic corridors, particularly Road 13 North and Road 13 South, to enhance domestic and regional connectivity. Authorities were directed to regulate modified vehicles and overloaded trucks to reduce road damage and extend the lifespan of national infrastructure. Additionally, coordination with relevant sectors is encouraged to improve roads connecting tourism destinations and agricultural production areas.
The government is calling for stronger efforts to tackle urban flooding, wastewater treatment, and city cleanliness as part of developing greener and more livable cities. Special attention is directed towards managing electronic waste, especially expired electric vehicle (EV) batteries, as Laos transitions towards environmentally friendly transportation systems. Local authorities are encouraged to promote solar-powered street lighting and alternative energy solutions.
The Prime Minister emphasized the effective use of the annual 200-300 billion kip budget allocated for waterway development projects, particularly for border protection and river infrastructure. The Mekong River and its tributaries are identified as important alternative transport routes to reduce pressure on land transportation networks. Authorities are instructed to improve safety standards for tourist and passenger boats and tighten regulations on sand and gravel dredging to prevent illegal gold mining.
Urgent government action is required to solve water shortages in major urban centers such as Vientiane, Pakse, Luang Prabang, and Kaysone Phomvihane through state investment and Public-Private Partnership mechanisms. Modern technology will be introduced to detect leaks and reduce non-revenue water losses before distribution to consumers.
The Prime Minister instructed relevant authorities to accelerate reforms within Lao Airlines and begin planning for a new airport in Vientiane, as Wattay International Airport is facing congestion. The ministry is tasked with strengthening the management of passenger transport services and coordinating with public security authorities to enforce traffic laws, particularly regarding drunk driving, speeding, and unsafe transportation of construction materials.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Laos-Vietnam railway project and studying the feasibility of a railway link connecting Khammouane, Champassak, and the Cambodia border. The Prime Minister emphasized linking Laos' railway network with regional systems connected to Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bangkok to strengthen regional logistics and maximize national revenue.
The Prime Minister also called for adopting Artificial Intelligence and modern digital technologies to improve infrastructure management, enhance administrative efficiency, and promote greater transparency and faster public services.
