Cambodia Reports 90 Worker Deaths in Road Crashes So Far in 2025

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Kompong Speu police

 

Nearly 3,000 traffic accidents involving workers were recorded across Cambodia in the first half of 2025, leaving 90 dead and almost 3,000 others injured, according to new figures released by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training.

 

The report revealed that 2,977 crashes occurred between January and June, resulting in 912 serious injuries and 1,975 minor ones. Notably, more than half of the victims—1,691—were women.

 

Authorities say the main causes include speeding, illegal turns, wrong-way driving, and mechanical faults. Open transport trucks and poorly maintained motorcycles remain a common but dangerous mode of travel for many Cambodian workers, particularly in garment factories.

 

Heng Sophannarith, Deputy Director-General of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), pointed to poor road user behaviour and substandard vehicles as key contributors. In response, the NSSF has launched targeted safety campaigns to promote helmet use, vehicle inspections, and the replacement of risky transport options with safer alternatives.

 

“Drivers must act responsibly, especially those transporting workers,” Sophannarith said. “We also urge passengers—particularly motorcyclists—to take greater care.”

 

Educational outreach has expanded in recent months, with the NSSF distributing safety videos and presentations in workplaces and on social media, while increasing awareness among cyclists and pedestrians.

 

Despite a slight year-on-year drop in national traffic deaths—from 1,590 in 2023 to 1,509 in 2024—experts warn the trend among worker-related crashes remains worrying. The Asian Injury Prevention Foundation’s Director, Kim Pagna, said most accidents stem from human error, including traffic violations and substance use.

 

He called for stricter enforcement and more consistent education to tackle the issue at its root.

 

Cambodia’s most dangerous provinces remain Kandal, Svay Rieng, Kampong Speu, and Siem Reap, among others.

 

As the country continues its push for road safety reform, campaigners say much more must be done—before another 90 lives are lost.

 

-2025-07-08