The capital’s labour force is still busy constructing the capital’s future – an impressive parliament complex and a presidential house are emerging in anticipation of the 2010 general elections. The total cost of building Naypyidaw remains a mystery, although a local businessman points out that about $2 million has been spent for each high-ranking official’s house, and there are at least 50 of them.

– Extracted from Nina Martin, “Living in a ghost town”, Bangkok Post, 18 October 2009.

A New Mandala post from earlier in the year is relevant for those who want a different perspective on Naypyidaw’s construction.