Cambodia to Reinforce Traffic Law Enforcement from September in 5 Provinces

The Cambodian government has decided to resume strict enforcement of traffic laws starting September 1st in select regions. This measure, approved by Prime Minister Hun Manet, aims to address the recent increase in road accidents. The renewed enforcement will be initially implemented in five provinces and municipalities: Phnom Penh, Preah Sihanouk, Kandal, Kampong Speu, and Svay Rieng. This decision follows a request from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha, who also chairs the National Committee for Road Traffic Safety. Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha had previously conveyed his serious concerns about the persistent fatalities and injuries on the roads to Prime Minister Hun Manet, seeking approval to re-enforce traffic laws. According to the Ministry of Interior's spokesperson, the renewed enforcement will focus on violations that commonly lead to accidents. These include speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, disregarding traffic signals and priority signs, and dangerous transportation of goods. A report from the Ministry of Interior indicates that during July 2026 alone, there were 208 road traffic accidents nationwide, resulting in 144 deaths and 245 serious and minor injuries. The report highlights that the primary causes of these accidents were speeding, failure to yield, improper lane changes, driving on the wrong side of the road, driving under the influence of alcohol, non-compliance with traffic signs, and vehicle maintenance issues. These violations are considered threats to social safety amidst a backdrop of regional conflicts and global economic instability. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local