36 Dead in Khmer New Year Road Crashes Across Cambodia

KT

At least 36 people lost their lives and 66 others were seriously injured in road accidents during Cambodia’s Khmer New Year festivities, the National Police confirmed on Wednesday.

Spanning five days from 12 to 16 April, the holiday period saw 44 traffic accidents nationwide—slightly fewer than the 50 recorded during last year’s celebrations, which took place over four days. Fatalities also dipped from 39 to 36, suggesting a modest improvement in road safety, though the figures remain stark.

The Department of Traffic and Public Order Police identified the main causes as speeding, reckless overtaking, driving under the influence, and failing to respect traffic rules—especially at night. Driving on the wrong side of the road and making hazardous turns were also key contributors to the carnage.

Khmer New Year is one of Cambodia’s most widely celebrated festivals, prompting millions to travel to their home provinces or holiday destinations. The surge in traffic—combined with festive drinking and poor enforcement—often leads to a spike in road-related deaths and injuries.

Authorities had ramped up public awareness campaigns and deployed more officers during the holiday, but the figures suggest significant challenges remain in tackling Cambodia’s persistent road safety crisis.

While officials welcomed the slight year-on-year decline, the toll remains sobering.

As celebrations give way to mourning for dozens of families, pressure is mounting on authorities to tighten enforcement, improve infrastructure, and encourage safer driving behaviour—before next year’s holidays roll around once more.

-2025-04-18