The first half of this year has seen a significant reduction in road traffic deaths across Cambodia, with a 20% drop in fatalities compared to the same period last year. According to a report from the National Road Safety Committee (NRSC), there were 756 road traffic deaths in the first six months of 2023, down from 942 in the same period in 2022. This encouraging trend is a result of various factors and highlights the country’s efforts to improve road safety.
The report also reveals a decrease in the number of road accidents and injuries. There were 1,548 road accidents, a decrease of 4%, and 2,072 injuries, a decrease of 7%, compared to the previous year. The reduction in accidents and injuries further demonstrates the positive impact of road safety initiatives in Cambodia.
The National Police spokesman, Chhay Kim Khoeun, attributes human error as the leading cause of accidents. Speeding, right-of-way rule violations, and careless driving were identified as the primary factors contributing to accidents. However, other factors such as failure to keep to the right, dangerous overtaking, drunk driving, drowsiness at the wheel, mechanical issues, and weather conditions also played a role.
Kim Pagna, the country director of the Asia Injury Prevention Foundation (AIP), commended the decline in traffic accidents and urged stakeholders to continue their efforts. He emphasized the importance of implementing even stricter measures to lower the number of accidents further. While the progress in the first half of the year is promising, Pagna emphasized the need to remain vigilant as the future is uncertain.
Minister of Public Works and Transport, Sun Chanthol, has set a goal to reduce road traffic accidents by half by 2030. This ambitious target aims to address the high number of daily deaths and injuries, with motorcyclists being involved in 75% of total traffic accidents. The government recognizes the importance of disseminating road safety information to increase public awareness and encourages stakeholders to adopt more stringent measures to prevent accidents.
The reduction in road traffic deaths and accidents in Cambodia is a positive development. It reflects the efforts of various stakeholders and the effectiveness of road safety initiatives. While progress has been made, it is essential to continue implementing stricter measures to ensure further reductions in accidents and protect the well-being of the Cambodian people.
Source: The PhnomPenh Post
