Russey Keo bridge temporarily opened to ease KNY travel

Authorities have opened the Russey Keo bridge temporarily to ease traffic flow during the upcoming Khmer New Year.

Phnom Penh municipal administration announced the opening of the bridge across the Tonle Sap River yesterday following an instruction from Prime Minister Hun Sen to ensure a smooth flow of traffic during the Khmer New Year holidays.

The country is gearing up to celebrate its traditional Khmer New Year (KNY) from Friday to Sunday.

Keut Chhe, Deputy Governor of Phnom Penh, said yesterday that security arrangements were put in place and there will be two levels of protection for people during the holiday season.

While the traffic police will facilitate the flow of people travelling to their hometowns to celebrate the KNY with their families and dear ones, the police patrolling unit will be ensuring the safety and security of the revellers during the three-day New Year festivities.

Bon Bunnarith, a traffic police officer, praised the government for the temporary opening of the bridge as it will reduce the traffic congestion in the area.

Outh Sona, a bicycle seller from Kampong Thom province, said that he is so excited to know about the opening of the bridge because it will help him to reach home easily, without getting into longer traffic jams. Earlier, he added, it used to take about two hours to get through the traffic jam in the area during rush hours.

Oung Sophea, an electrician from Kratie province, said that the decision will help the people during the KNY.

Orb Phors, a taxi driver from Svay Rieng province, said that the road is one way, and the bridge with dividers is too big for road users to violate traffic rules. He hopes traffic accidents will also come down in the area.

Built at a cost of $35 million, the bridge will connect National Road 5 in Russey Keo district to National Road 6 in Chroy Changva district, and will reach up to the Morodok Techo National Stadium that is hosting the 2023 SEA Games.

The construction of the bridge started in October 2017, and it is almost complete with some minor works pending before the official opening.

Source：Khmer Times