Accelerating Plans for High-Speed Expressway from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: A Game-Changer for Cambodia’s Transportation

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) is making significant strides in expediting the implementation plan for the urban light rail transit (ULRT), a high-speed passenger rail carrier connecting Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) to the bustling heart of Siem Reap province. Minister Peng Ponea, also Deputy Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Commission of ULRT, recently participated in a crucial meeting with representatives from China Metro Group (CMG), led by Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, the First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC).

This meeting aimed to accelerate the development of the light rail project, responding to Prime Minister Hun Manet’s recommendations in light of the growing tourism industry and transportation services since the official launch of the new airport operation on November 16.

The CDC conference hall in Phnom Penh set the stage for a focused discussion, centering on examining the project to ensure minimal disturbance in the Angkor Wat area, an archaeological site under the purview of the Apsara Authority. The session, attended by senior officials, leaders, and members of the Inter-Ministerial Commission, along with representatives from relevant institutions, sought to address potential concerns and ensure the preservation of Cambodia’s cultural heritage.

One of the pivotal moments regarding the project occurred during the ‘Third Belt and Road Forum’ in Beijing on October 17. CMG’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, Li Kuo, apprised Prime Minister Hun Manet of the company’s plans to develop a light rail system linking Cambodia’s two newest international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The discussion revolved around the potential of the light rail project to connect airports with their adjacent cities and CMG’s interest in exploring solutions to alleviate traffic congestion, enhancing transportation efficiency throughout the Kingdom.

In August, CMG expressed interest in constructing a high-speed Light Metro Rail in Siem Reap, seeking additional data to complete a feasibility study. This request was made during a consultation meeting organized by MPWT at Siem Reap Provincial Hall. The company sought comprehensive data and information from the Cambodian government, emphasizing the need to navigate through Angkor without impacting the archaeological site or the protected areas designated by the Apsara Authority.

Duch Sareth, Managing Director of Angkor Destination Travel, highlighted the positive impact of the SAI airport’s operation on Siem Reap province’s international tourism. Visitors from the United States and European countries, particularly Americans, French, and Germans, have become the leading contributors to the province’s tourism influx.

In addition to these advancements, the proposed high-speed expressway from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap brings forth seven key advantages:

Enhanced Connectivity: The high-speed expressway will seamlessly connect the capital, Phnom Penh, with Siem Reap, fostering improved connectivity and accessibility between these key urban centers.

Boost to Tourism: The expressway is poised to further stimulate the tourism industry by facilitating faster and more convenient travel for domestic and international visitors, contributing to the economic growth of Siem Reap province.

Time Efficiency: Travel time between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap will be significantly reduced, enhancing efficiency for both business and leisure travelers.

Economic Growth: The expressway’s construction and operation will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the regions it traverses.

Trade and Commerce: The improved transportation infrastructure will facilitate the movement of goods and services, fostering increased trade and commerce between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Environmental Impact: The high-speed expressway, when compared to traditional modes of transportation, is likely to have a lower environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Modernization of Transportation: The introduction of a high-speed expressway represents a leap forward in the modernization of Cambodia’s transportation network, bringing the country in line with international standards.