Phnom Penh: Cambodia's ambitious National Road 10 project, featuring the nation's tallest bridge, is nearing completion, with a temporary opening planned to ease travel during the upcoming Khmer New Year celebrations.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, a delegation led by H.E. Khan Manner, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, conducted a thorough inspection of the project on Mar. 24. The inspection revealed that the 197.36-kilometre-long National Road 10, connecting Samlot in Battambang, Veal Veng in Pursat to Koh Kong, has reached 98.16 percent completion.
A key highlight of the project is Bridge No. 28, Cambodia's tallest bridge, soaring 90 metres high and stretching 538 metres long. The bridge, now 98.2 percent complete, will be temporarily opened for light vehicles during daytime hours from April 11-17, 2025, to accommodate increased travel during the Khmer New Year festivities.
"This temporary opening will significantly alleviate travel congestion and facilitate smoother journeys for those celebrating the New Year," stated H.E. Khan Manner. "While the project is still underway, we recognise the importance of providing this temporary access for the public."
A significant concrete-pouring ceremony for Bridge No. 28 is scheduled for April 8, 2025, to be presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), H.E. Sun Chanthol, and Minister of Public Works and Transport, H.E. Peng Ponea.
The National Road 10 project, featuring a Grade III, double-layer asphalt (DBST) road with a 9-metre width, commenced construction on Dec. 18, 2019, and is slated for completion in June 2025. The project encompasses 478 drainage systems and 32 bridges, representing a substantial investment in Cambodia's infrastructure.
This infrastructure development is expected to significantly boost connectivity between Battambang, Pursat, and Koh Kong provinces, fostering economic growth and regional development. The completed road will reduce travel times and improve transportation efficiency, benefiting both local communities and businesses.