Traffic police are on duty on Street 271 in Chamkarmon district in Phnom Penh last year. Hong Menea
Following a recent announcement from the National Police regarding stricter traffic laws in September, the Department of Traffic Police and Public Order has reported a successful enforcement of the new regulations. The move has been largely applauded by organisations dedicated to road safety, which believe these measures will effectively curtail the rate of casualties.
According to its October 8 report, enforcement was undertaken across 77 target areas, resulting in the check of 1,768 vehicles, including 335 cars and 1,433 motorcycles. The authorities issued fines to 362 vehicles (79 cars and 283 motorcycles), based on the provisions of sub-decree 39.
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Kim Pagna, country director for the Asia Injury Prevention (AIP) Foundation, voiced his endorsement for the reinforced regulations, saying they would likely cut down the injury and fatality rates from road accidents.
“I strongly support the recent law enforcement, especially its continued implementation over the upcoming three-day Pchum Ben festival [from October 13-15]. Some might argue for leniency during holidays, but that could endanger our citizens,” he said.
Pagna further suggested the limitation of alcoholic beverage advertising and sales during major events, including the Buddhist holiday of Pchum Ben.
“Just as with election periods, suspending alcohol advertising or sales can play a crucial role in reducing mishaps,” he added.
Kong Sophorn, the governor of Kandal province and provincial chairman of the Cambodian Red Cross (CRC), led a traffic initiative on October 8.
In collaboration with Takhmao town police, CRC youths from Hun Sen Takhmao and Hun Sen Sereypheap high schools organised traffic safety campaigns at two town intersections. He said that over 1,103 people, 432 of them women, took part in the community effort.
“This effort aims to raise awareness of road … regulations, particularly during Cambodia’s traditional Pchum Ben festival. Together, we can diminish the toll of accidents which result in injuries, loss of life and damage to both private and public property,” he said.
