Ubon ratchathani: The anticipation surrounding the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting is palpable among the border residents of Ubon Ratchathani. Despite the ongoing discussions, many villagers harbor doubts about the effectiveness of resolutions involving Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere in the border villages has been tense, with village defense volunteers maintaining a vigilant watch since the early hours. The GBC meeting, which commenced on August 4th, has heightened security measures in the region, with volunteers actively monitoring for any unusual activities, including unrecognized individuals and suspicious vehicles.
Interviews with villagers reveal a deep-seated anxiety regarding the meeting's outcome. One villager shared that his family remains in a temporary shelter while he stays behind to protect their home, despite the risks posed by the red zone. Faced with limited options, he continues to earn a meager living by cutting grass for others, while his safety remains a constant concern. His skepticism about trusting Cambodia persists, regardless of the meeting's conclusions.
The situation has also impacted local businesses, as evidenced by a conversation with the owner of a factory producing reinforced concrete pipes. Originally intended for road construction projects, the pipes are now used as bunkers. The owner noted that the machinery, crucial for production, is scarce and expensive. The factory faces challenges in maintaining production due to limited resources, including a shortage of raw stone, further exacerbated by the ongoing tensions at the Thai-Cambodian border.