Cambodia Considers Monorail Project for Phnom Penh

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Monorail
The KL Monorail links key destinations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The Government of Cambodia has reviewed a feasibility study for a monorail project that would connect densely populated areas of the capital Phnom Penh.

Cambodia’s Public Works and Transport Minister Sun Chanthol reviewed a feasibility study for the construction of a monorail or subway system on Friday.

According to the Ministry, the meeting reviewed in detail a presentation made by a group of experts that outlined a rail network project which could connect nearly all locations in Phnom Penh.

The study also compared the unit cost of subway or monorail construction, construction time, operating cost and maintenance costs.

Traffic congestion near Preah Monivong Bridge in Phnom Penh’s Meanchey District (Photo: Hong Menea)
Traffic congestion near Preah Monivong Bridge in Phnom Penh’s Meanchey District (Photo: Hong Menea)

The Minister advised the firm to do further in-depth studies, including how to make Cambodia’s public transport development project more complete, so as to contribute to the growth and development of this sector and address the growing problem of traffic congestion.

According to the transport ministry, a mass transport system remains a much-needed development in light of Phnom Penh’s rapid growth and expanding middle class.

A growing road traffic volume may signify a rise in economic activity, but drawbacks include longer travel times, higher fuel prices, and environmental damage.

The feasibility study for the monorail was completed last year, however, the government has yet to decide how it wishes to proceed.