Underwater construction has begun on a new 1.6-kilometer-long bridge across the Mekong River in Cambodia, marking a significant milestone in the country’s infrastructure development. The bridge, along with a 2.1-kilometer connecting road, is being built by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and is expected to be completed within 48 months.
The project, located in the southeastern part of Phnom Penh, aims to connect Kean Svay and Lvea Aem districts in Kandal province. Officials say the bridge will boost economic growth, enhance regional connectivity, and significantly improve the daily lives of local residents.
“This bridge is very important for common people as well as civil servants to travel and communicate with each other,” said Sok Khna, a 53-year-old resident of Kean Svay district. “More importantly, people will be able to travel across the bridge free of charge, contributing to reducing poverty.”
Currently, residents rely on ferry services to cross the river, which can be time-consuming and costly. A motorcycle ride on the ferry costs 1,000 riel ($0.25), while cars are charged 10,000 riel ($2.50), with the journey taking about half an hour.
“When this bridge is constructed, it will surely provide a lot of advantages to me and other passengers,” said 21-year-old Khat Vichara. “It will facilitate our travel, reduce our expenses, and save our time.”
CRBC’s executive general manager, Wu Jinhai, highlighted the bridge as a product of Cambodia-China cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. He emphasized the company’s commitment to promoting green development and delivering a quality project.
So Victor, secretary of state of the Cambodian Ministry of Public Works and Transport, expressed gratitude for the project, noting its importance in enhancing infrastructure and promoting economic growth in the region.
Reference(s):
Chinese-built bridge project in Cambodia starts underwater work
cgtn.com
