The Highest Bridge in Cambodia: Bridge No. 28 – A Towering Symbol of Connectivity and Development
Overview of the Highest Bridge in Cambodia
Nestled amidst the lush, forested mountains of Pursat province, Bridge No. 28 now proudly holds the title of the highest bridge in Cambodia. Towering at an impressive height of 90 meters above the Stung Russey Chrum River, the bridge offers more than just passage—it delivers breathtaking panoramic views and a new chapter in the nation’s infrastructural progress. Officially opened to the public on May 15, this bridge stands as a symbol of Cambodia’s engineering evolution, national investment, and regional integration.
Location, Dimensions, and Budget
Bridge No. 28 is located in Chhay Luk village, O’Som commune, Veal Veng district—a mountainous part of Pursat province—and is part of the newly constructed National Road 10. Spanning 537 meters in length and 10 meters in width, the bridge features a central viewpoint of 15 meters, where travelers can stop to soak in the serene natural beauty. From the tranquil Stung Russey Chrum River below to the endless green canopy that stretches across the horizon, it’s a site that merges functionality with natural splendor.
Also read: What Happens If a Railway Link Connects Cambodia Directly to China?
The entire bridge was fully funded by Cambodia’s national budget, emphasizing the government’s commitment to developing the country’s transportation infrastructure using domestic resources. Although the exact figure of the budget has not been publicly disclosed, its significance as a state-financed project in a challenging terrain showcases the country’s growing self-reliance.
Construction and Development Partners
The construction of Bridge No. 28 began as part of a broader effort to open up western Cambodia and improve connectivity across provinces that were once considered remote and difficult to access. The project was developed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), a global leader in infrastructure development. Technical supervision was conducted by Guangzhou Wanan Construction Supervision Co Ltd, ensuring that quality and safety standards were upheld from the project’s beginning to completion.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) confirmed that 100% of the construction was completed before the official opening in May 2025. The entire process reflects a successful collaboration between Cambodia and its international development partners, along with efficient project management.
Connectivity and Strategic Importance
Bridge No. 28 plays a critical role in enhancing transportation links in Cambodia. It connects the interior highlands of Pursat province to other key provinces along National Road 10, offering a direct travel route between Battambang and Koh Kong provinces—a route that previously required passing through Phnom Penh. Thanks to the new bridge and road system, the travel distance between these two provinces has been reduced by approximately 306 kilometers. Similarly, it shortens the route from Pailin to Koh Kong by up to 372 kilometers.
Also read: What’s Next for Phnom Penh’s Airport After July?
Such reductions are more than just geographical—they translate into significant economic benefits. Travel time and transportation costs are cut, which encourages trade, boosts tourism, and improves access to services for remote communities. The bridge is expected to play a pivotal role in Cambodia’s broader strategy to strengthen infrastructure and logistics networks, making internal trade more efficient and supporting rural development.
A New Tourist Landmark
Beyond its practical purpose, Bridge No. 28 has been thoughtfully designed as a tourist attraction. The 15-meter-wide central viewpoint in the middle of the bridge provides a safe and scenic spot for visitors to stop, take photos, and appreciate the untouched beauty of the Cardamom Mountains and the flowing Stung Russey Chrum River below. The site has already begun attracting local travelers and photography enthusiasts, making it an emerging destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has encouraged the public to explore the bridge and enjoy the surrounding environment, reinforcing the government’s vision of infrastructure that also serves recreational and cultural value.
Voices Behind the Vision
Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, has emphasized the strategic value of Bridge No. 28. During a symbolic concrete-pouring ceremony in April, he described it as a “milestone in Cambodian engineering” and an essential tool for regional integration and economic diversification.
Likewise, MPWT spokesperson Phan Rim noted, “The bridge will provide tremendous economic benefits as it reduces both travel time and transportation costs.” His statement underlines the dual impact of this project—economic upliftment and improved mobility for citizens in remote provinces.
A Symbol of Cambodia’s Infrastructure Future
Bridge No. 28 is more than a structure—it’s a story of progress, resilience, and vision. Built in one of Cambodia’s most mountainous and challenging terrains, the bridge demonstrates what is possible when national ambition meets technical expertise. It marks a significant leap forward in Cambodia’s goal to modernize its road network and ensure inclusive development that reaches every corner of the country.
Also read: What Happens If a Railway Link Connects Cambodia Directly to China?
As the highest bridge ever built in Cambodia, it is not just an engineering record but a landmark of pride, connectivity, and opportunity. With every vehicle that crosses it and every tourist who stops to admire the view, Bridge No. 28 proves that Cambodia’s infrastructure journey is heading in the right direction—upward and forward.
Have you visited Bridge No. 28 or traveled along National Road 10? What are your thoughts about Cambodia’s new infrastructure developments? Share your experience in the comments below!
