The Call for More Public Parks in Phnom Penh: A Growing Necessity.
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is a city steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Phnom Penh is Founded in the 15th century, the city has grown from a modest settlement on the banks of the Tonle Sap River into a bustling metropolis. Once a center for royal and religious activities, Phnom Penh is now the political, economic, and cultural hub of the nation. As of 2024, Phnom Penh is home to over 2.3 million people, and this ever-growing population has led to rapid urbanization. However, with this growth has come an increasing demand for public spaces—green areas where citizens can unwind, breathe fresh air, and find respite from the concrete jungle.
As the population swells and development intensifies, the demand for more public parks is louder than ever. But why are public parks in Phnom Penh, and beyond, so crucial? In this blog post, we explore the importance of expanding green spaces, the challenges people face, and the potential solutions to enhance the quality of life in Cambodia’s capital city.
Phnom Penh Capital City on the Map
Public Parks: An Oasis in Urban Chaos
Public parks are often seen as havens of peace in the midst of bustling cities. In Phnom Penh, residents seek out these green spaces to relax, reduce stress, and reconnect with nature. However, as the city continues to expand, the limited number of public parks has become a significant concern. The few parks that do exist are often overcrowded, and visitors must contend with high parking fees and safety concerns.
Take Wat Botum Park, for example, a popular destination for families and individuals seeking a break from city life. Bot Pisey, a 27-year-old mother, regularly brings her children to this park on weekends to let them play in the fresh air. “While the fresh air helps reduce my stress, the cost of parking and the lack of space for a picnic can be frustrating,” she shared. Pisey mentioned that paying 2,000 riel for parking might not be a big deal for her, but for students or those on a tighter budget, it could be problematic.
Wat Botum Park in Phnom Penh on the Map
The limited availability of affordable public parks in Phnom Penh is a sentiment shared by many residents. Chea Sovanthearith, a student at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, noted that every time he visits the park, he ends up spending at least 10,000 riel on parking, food, and drinks. “It’s not just about the money. The parks are crowded because we don’t have enough green spaces in the city. The environment isn’t as enjoyable as it could be,” Sovanthearith explained.
Overcrowding and Safety Issues
As Phnom Penh’s population grows, so does the number of people flocking to the city’s limited green spaces. This overcrowding detracts from the very purpose of public parks—providing a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. University student Korng Votey, who enjoys visiting the green area in front of the Royal Palace, shared her concerns about safety in these crowded spaces. “Even though the authorities are present, the large crowds make me feel uneasy, especially during weekends and evenings. I’m always a bit worried about my safety,” Votey said.
This overcrowding not only raises concerns about safety but also diminishes the quality of the environment in these parks. With so many people gathering in the same space, cleanliness and maintenance become major issues, turning what should be a peaceful retreat into a chaotic gathering.
A Regional Comparison: Phnom Penh vs. Other Cities
A report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) highlighted that public spaces in Phnom Penh are significantly lower in number compared to other cities in the region, such as Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City. The lack of public space has become particularly problematic for disadvantaged communities, who have little to no access to green spaces.
According to a case study by Sahmakum Teang Tnaut Organisation, “The city is rapidly expanding, with most new public spaces being created for residential areas, which do not benefit the public.” This means that while Phnom Penh continues to grow, the creation of public parks has not kept pace with the needs of its residents, especially in marginalized neighborhoods.
The benefits of green spaces extend far beyond just providing a place to relax. Public parks play a crucial role in improving mental health, encouraging physical activity, and fostering community interactions. These spaces act as “social nexuses” where people from all walks of life can come together, creating a sense of unity and belonging.
Benefits of Expanding Public Parks
The benefits of more public parks in Phnom Penh are clear and far-reaching. Public spaces contribute significantly to improving both mental and physical health. A simple walk in the park can help reduce stress and anxiety, and open green areas encourage outdoor activities like jogging, yoga, or just walking, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Additionally, parks serve as vital communal areas, allowing people from different backgrounds to interact, socialize, and build stronger community ties. Public parks also provide a safe space for children to play, helping to foster their development. Pisey emphasized the importance of having more parks, especially for families like hers: “My kids need a place to play, and I need a space to relax and unwind.”
From an environmental perspective, green spaces help mitigate the effects of urbanization. They reduce heat, lower the risk of flooding, and help improve air quality by acting as natural filters for pollutants. Public parks also reduce noise pollution, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s constant buzz.
Addressing the Shortage of Public Parks
The need for more public parks in Phnom Penh is evident, but how can this be achieved? The Sahmakum Teang Tnaut Organisation has proposed some innovative solutions to tackle this issue. One suggestion is to convert unused land, such as areas beneath flyovers and along canals, into public parks. Siem Reap has already successfully implemented a similar strategy by transforming a foul-smelling canal into a vibrant green public space.
Kert Chea, a spokesperson for Phnom Penh City Hall, confirmed that the authorities are aware of the issue and are working to create more public spaces. “For the expansion or improvement of public parks, the City Hall continues to implement as long as there is free public land,” he said. According to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, as of 2022, Phnom Penh had a total of 121 public parks, covering more than one million square meters. However, as the population continues to grow, this is still not enough.
The idea of converting unused spaces into parks is gaining traction. The Sahmakum Teang Tnaut Organisation recommends prioritizing public land for this purpose and targeting underutilized areas like dirt paths and spaces adjacent to canals. This strategy not only addresses the shortage of parks but also helps beautify neglected areas of the city.
The Way Forward
Public parks are more than just recreational spaces—they are essential for the well-being of urban populations. As Phnom Penh continues to grow, the city must prioritize the creation of more green spaces to ensure a higher quality of life for its residents. Whether it’s for mental health, physical activity, community bonding, or environmental benefits, public parks are invaluable assets in urban settings.
The question now is how the government and stakeholders can accelerate the development of these spaces. With the right investment and planning, Phnom Penh has the potential to create a more livable, green, and healthy environment for its citizens.
What are your thoughts on the current state of public parks in Phnom Penh? Do you think the city is doing enough to address the shortage of green spaces, or do more efforts need to be made? Share your opinions and let’s start a conversation on how we can make Phnom Penh a greener and healthier city for everyone.