A section of the 187km Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway shows the reflective lighting, and the absence of lampposts. Supplied
Streetlights are typically designed to assist pedestrians and lightweight vehicles such as bicycles and scooters which do not produce sufficient lighting on their own. As neither pedestrians or light vehicles are permitted to use expressways, streetlights are rarely installed along them.
The Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway Company offered this clarification on March 14, following a series of public comments asking why lighting is not installed along the 187km high-speed roadway.
A company statement explained that the expressway is equipped with reflective lane marking systems, which reflect vehicle headlights to ensure that drivers are aware of the road layout, lane dividers and central barriers.
“Expressways are not intended for use by pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles such as small motorcycles or tuk-tuks. Streetlights are typically designed for pedestrians and cyclists in areas where there is no reflective lighting or weak illumination,” said the statement.
The decision not to install streetlights follows internationally recognised principles and standards.
Furthermore, the absence of streetlights is also aimed at reducing energy consumption, in consideration of environmental impacts and other related concerns.
Additionally, it noted that lamp posts provide specific intervals of lighting. This means drivers are constantly passing from light to dark and so on.
At high-speed, such variations in lighting can lead to eye strain, causing fatigue and drowsiness, which may increase traffic safety risks.
The company reminded users to check the lighting system of their vehicle before using the expressway at night. The statement noted that it is not just headlights that should be tested.
It also highlighted the specific function and importance of brake lights, indicators and hazard lights. They signal other road users when the vehicle is changing direction, slowing down or stopping and warn others of potential hazards.
“Traffic officers on the expressway will tighten lighting system inspections and take action against individuals who violate road traffic laws or expressway usage policies,” the company warned.
Traffic reports showed that from March 3 to 9, a total of 115,894 journeys were recorded on the expressway.
The emergency hotline 1399 received 194 calls, including 2 accident reports, 79 requests for assistance and 113 informational inquiries.
