Learning
Defaming Laos-China Railway is Ignoring Lao People’s Future
VIENTIANE – As an important project along the “Belt and Road”, the Laos-China railway has been on a nine-year journey since it was approved by the Lao National Assembly in 2010 and officially started construction in 2016.The project provides employment opportunities and brings a wonderful life dream for thousands of local people, which is called a well-being project of bilateral cooperation.
While more and more developing countries applaud the high efficiency and cooperative win-win of the Belt and Road initiatives, a few western medias are recently criticizing the project’s political and economic impact on Laos for illegally confiscating farmers’ land, slow compensation and relocation work, trying to negate the Laos-China railway completely. The insidious tricks reflect their ambivalence that they neither have willing to do themselves nor allow others succeed.
To comment on the railway, comparing the critics who are lack of basic political and economic knowledge, the Lao government and people have more say in the railway project.
The Laos-China railway boosts the economy
Once construction of the railway is finished and it is open to traffic, the time from the Laos-China border to Vientiane will be shortened from 16 hours by bus to 3 hours by train.
According to a report by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport of Laos, the Laos-China railway will help Laos achieve its strategy of external cooperation and connectivity with China and other Asean countries, and will play an important role in attracting foreign investment, modern technology and human resources.
The Vientiane Times also thinks that the construction of the Laos-China railway will become an important pillar of Laos’ economic growth.
People living along the railway are feeling the benefits deeply. “The construction of the Laos-China railway will boost economic development along the route and provide more job opportunities and the possibility of development for local Lao people,” Natsavee Norasing, a resident of Luang Prabang province said in an interview.
“The Laos-China railway project is under construction, with 40 percent of the project completed so far, and the most positive impact on Laos is to promote local employment.” Tang Xiaojun, a Lao media man, gives more convincing figures: “There were 7,112 jobs in six sections of the Laos-China railway project in July last year, all of which were provided to the Lao people. Such mass hiring of Lao staff is rare.”
Poor infrastructure is the key reason for the slow growth of Laos’ domestic economy. With the construction of the Laos-China railway, the situation will be completely changed.
Nuke, a grocery store owner who lives near the Vientiane railway station, is full of expectation about the Laos-China railway. “We are all happy to have a railway here,” he said. “When it opens, more tourists will come and business will be better. Even though the government took over our land, we will be compensated and our lives will change. When I get money, I’ll visit China by train.”
Thingmiphong, a resident of Luang Namtha province – the first Lao province on the Laos-China railway line from China – hopes that local farmers’ products will go to international markets. She said Laos is an agriculture-dominated country, and the Laos-China railway has provided convenient conditions for local agricultural products to go to overseas markets, which will increase farmers’ incomes.
The direct feeling and expectation of the Lao people is to let human resources and products flow and keep the economy alive. Natsavee Norasing, a resident of Luang Prabang province, said “The railway can greatly improve Laos’ domestic transport network and promote population flows between China and Laos, which offers huge potential for development of the social economy, cultural tourism and the labour market.
Also, the domestic demands of Laos will be further expanded. Mutual development and prosperity of culture and economy between the two countries will be achieved. It is really convenient and good for local people.”
The Laos-China railway is like an engine that drives more and more local industrial chains. Huang Difu, general manager of the international branch of the China Railway Corporation, said “Construction of the railway will directly drive the development of local engineering, supply of building materials, electricity, agriculture and animal husbandry, the service industry, logistics and other industries in Laos.
It will promote local employment and industrial upgrading. What’s more, the railway also plays an important role in promoting the development of tourism, trade, agriculture, animal husbandry and processing industries along the line.”
Of course, Vientiane is not the terminal of the Laos-China railway. When the railway is finished, there will be more development space for Asean.
At the time construction of the Laos-China railway began, work also began on the Yuxi-Mohan railway in China, which is expected to be completed at the same time. By then, the central line of the Trans-Asian Railway will take shape.
In the future, the Laos-China railway will connect with railways in Thailand, Malaysia and other countries and become a new economic link between China and Asean.
Compensation can better people’s lives
Before the groundbreaking ceremony for the railway in December 2016, the statistics work for land expropriation and compensation was basically finished: about 3,000 hectares of land will be permanently taken over and 800 hectares of land will be temporarily used. Some 4,411 households will be affected due to the construction of the railway.
After many coordinating meetings between China and Laos, the Lao government is now seeking the opinion of relevant parties on the compensation standard. According to the requirements of railway projects, the compensation for land in different sections differs and is mainly based on whether the land is connected to national highways, provincial highways, village roads, or have no road access.
Villagers affected by the railway will also be paid for their houses and apartments, as well as small buildings such as kitchens, sundries, garages, shops and animal houses. In addition, the developers of the railway will compensate people for crops and fruit trees that must be uprooted due to the railway construction.
To ensure that the compensation process is fair and transparent, the Lao government requires the parties concerned to open accounts at Lao foreign trade banks. At present, four provinces and one city along the railway have agreed on the amount of compensation. According to the liabilities of contract, Laos is responsible for land compensation, while the Laos-China Railway Company is responsible for demolition compensation.
About 500 million yuan has been allocated for the demolition compensation budget, and the Lao government promises to take the necessary measures to ensure that the compensation process is open, fair and orderly.
According to the Lao Statistics Bureau, Laos’ per capita GDP was US$2,468 in 2017. The government’s compensation standard is 320,000 kip – 3.5 million kip per square metre (about US$37-US$410 per square metre). Plus other compensation for farmland, homesteads, young crops and so on, the amount of compensation will be considerable and equal to the annual income of local people.
“Reasonable compensation for demolition and relocation will be helpful to improve the living and housing conditions of the people along the railway,” said Laos media man Tang Xiaojun.
“Although the railway affects factories, farmland, private land and villages in northern Laos including Luang Namtha, Oudomxay and Luang Prabang provinces, the government is willing to compensate, and the pricing is reasonable, so people can accept it.” Khamsam Laochong, a resident of Oudomxay province, said “I hope the railway can make life easier for local people and help us take away poverty.”
Chinese companies such as the China Railway Engineering Corporation and Power Construction Corporation of China declare that they will make the Laos-China railway “a way of friendship, a way of incorruptibility and a way of wellbeing”. They never forget public welfare while building the railway.
Since the project department of the Power Construction Corporation of China was set up in Xieng Ngeun district, Luang Prabang province, in 2016, they have built about 104 km of roads in Laos, and injected about 118.58 million yuan. They also built a new 72 km power line and a new transformer substation of 115-22kv in the Juge River, as well as five reservoirs and 11 km of water pipes. They participated in landslide repair projects many times on the Luang Prabang section of National Road No. 13.
In addition, the project department has also opened a technical training school for Lao workers and conducted three training courses, providing more than 100 local jobs.
“Although building the Laos-China railway can bring some negative impacts, such as social security problems caused by large population movements, insufficient accommodation, cultural conflicts, and environmental pollution in Laos,” Natsavee Norasing, a resident of Luang Prabang province, does not worry about these problems.
“We are working together to solve these problems. While doing this, the people of the two countries will become closer and united like a family.”
The Western media is skeptical about the construction of the Laos-China railway. But whatever the compensation or environmental issues, the Lao government and people will have reasonable policies and comprehensive evaluation.
In constructing the railway, the two countries will cooperate with each other and understand each other, because it is not only a traffic artery, but more like a “friendship bridge” linking the people of the two countries.
Thanks to the Laos-China railway, all things will be better, wherever in China or Laos. If western interests keep criticizing the project, the future of Lao people will be ignored, and what they do is not responsible for the history.
By Zeng Ren
______
The views expressed here are solely those of the author in his/her private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of the Chiang Rai Times.
Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.
Understanding Your Financial Position
The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:
1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.
2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.
3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.
4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.
Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle
A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.
Deciding What You Want
Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:
1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.
2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.
3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.
4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?
Starting the Property Search
With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:
1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.
2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.
3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.
Making an Offer
Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:
1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.
2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.
3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.
The Legal Process
If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:
1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.
2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.
3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.
4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.
5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.
Moving In
Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:
1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.
2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.
3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.
Settling In
Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.
Here are a few final tips:
1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.
2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.
3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.
Conclusion
Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!
SEE ALSO: Conquer the Chaos: Hacks to Clean Your Home in Half the Time
There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!
Smoother Skin
One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.
After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.
Softer Skin
After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.
Healthier Nails
After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.
Increased Blood Circulation
While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.
Reduced Infections
A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.
These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.
For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.
The Importance of Professional Installation
When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:
- Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
- Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
- Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
- Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.
Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation
When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:
- Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
- Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
- Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
- Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.
Choosing the Right Installation Service
Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
- Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.
In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.
Conclusion
Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.
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