Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed Phnom Penh authorities to clear 70 hectares of land in the Kob Srov area, Prek Pnov district, to develop a vast public park aimed at promoting outdoor recreation, community engagement, and tourism.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the Morodok Techo Flyover, which connects Samdech Techo Boulevard, Preah Monivong Boulevard, and Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Boulevard (Road 271) in Meanchey and Chamkar Morn districts.
“Currently in Phnom Penh, I have prepared about 70 hectares of land at Kob Srov Road to create a public park for citizens to enjoy, for concerts on weekends, and to provide entertainment,” the Prime Minister said.
The land allocation sparked suggestions from some individuals who believed the area’s high value—estimated at around $70 million—warranted the inclusion of additional commercial or residential developments. However, Mr Hun Manet firmly dismissed those proposals, emphasizing that the land must remain dedicated to a public park for the benefit of Phnom Penh’s residents.
He underscored the city’s ongoing efforts to increase green spaces, citing Phnom Penh Governor Khuong Sreng’s initiative to plant more trees in public areas to help combat urban heat.
Beyond Phnom Penh, the Prime Minister encouraged provincial authorities to prioritize public park development as part of their urban planning strategies. He cited Kep province’s current project to enhance its coastal area with sand as a model for combining natural beauty with tourism appeal.
“I recently advised each province to also consider this. In areas near the provincial capital, 100 hectares or 200 hectares of land should be reserved for the creation of public parks,” Mr Hun Manet stated.
He expressed strong support and appreciation for both capital and provincial administrations working to develop more parks, which he views as essential spaces for relaxation and recreation after the workweek.
As part of the broader initiative to enhance livability in urban areas, the Prime Minister also tasked the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction—alongside the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration—with improving road infrastructure. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow across the capital.
He also issued recommendations to strengthen the technical standards of physical infrastructure development, ensuring that projects are resilient against risks from climate change and natural disasters—similar to strategies adopted by neighboring countries.
Soeung Saran, executive director of Sahmakum Teang Tnaut (STT), welcomed the initiative, stating that the development of large-scale public parks meets the needs of the general population, particularly those in the immediate area.
“Overall, it provides many positive benefits in terms of the welfare of the people, as the plan is organised around a city layout and offers a large space for people to exercise. It will also help support the economy, particularly for informal vendors who can earn more income. Moreover, it will bring potential to the surrounding area,” Saran noted.
The Kob Srov park project represents a major step toward enhancing Phnom Penh’s urban environment, offering residents much-needed green space while supporting local economies and boosting the city’s appeal to domestic and international tourists.
