Defensive preparations made in Thai border towns

By Channel NewsAsia's IndoChina Correspondent Anasuya Sanyal

18 November 2009

(Posted by CAAI News Media)

THAILAND-CAMBODIA BORDER: Defensive preparations are being made in some Thai border towns, just kilometres away from where the two countries meet – with bunkers set up in recent months as a part of Thai villagers' defence strategy.

Such anti-artillery bunkers reflect the rising tension between Thailand and Cambodia, especially along the border. Relations are at an all-time low for a variety of reasons.

A 4.6-kilometre parcel of land near Preah Vihear temple is still disputed.

Fugitive former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra was recently welcomed by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to advise the government. And the arrest of a Thai national in Phnom Penh accused of spying has resulted in a diplomatic deadlock.

But most agree that it is a government spat and not likely to turn violent.

"The conflict that (has) arisen at this moment is not between people. The Cambodian people and Thai people are still good friends together and they have good relationship, even the soldiers. No one wants any fight, but in case we have to do it, we are ready to win," said Thai Justice Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga.

In addition to evacuation plans, governments in Thai border towns have built 340 concrete and sandbag bunkers at a cost of over US$2 million. They said people feel more secure with them around.

And though the government said the military situation is normal on the border, the media is denied access and told it is for their own safety.

Some analysts said Thais will put aside political divisions to unite against a perceived external threat, but this corner of the Kingdom still supports the former prime minister.

"Local people here like Thaksin. We are proud that a Thai become an advisor (to another country)," said Nirandon Lumthaisong, official, Sao Thongchai sub-district.

An escalation of the row may include sealing the border between the two countries.

However, locals here said this would hurt trade and their livelihoods and make the situation much worse for the people who have already borne much of the brunt of this conflict.

- CNA/sc