It’s time for serious action on Phnom Penh’s traffic woes
A volunteer helps to direct traffic during peak hours in Phnom Penh. KT/Chor Sokunthea
-Editorial-
It’s time for traffic police to be regularly stationed at intersections without traffic lights, where congestion often goes unmanaged. At these junctions, traffic jams can last for hours with no police presence in sight. Drivers are left to navigate the chaos themselves—pushing through in vain as vehicles become entangled in all directions, creating a gridlock that takes hours to resolve.
Traffic in Phnom Penh has noticeably worsened in recent years, largely due to the increasing number of vehicles—particularly private cars and motorbikes. However, a major contributing factor remains the lack of consistent traffic law enforcement.
Many drivers ignore pedestrian crossings even at intersections with traffic lights, preventing pedestrians from crossing safely. In some areas, traffic is left unmanaged for hours, and while local volunteers or even tuk-tuk drivers occasionally step in to help, their efforts are not a sustainable solution.
The situation is further compounded by vehicles parked along roadsides, which were never intended for parking. These parked cars narrow the road space and worsen the congestion.
Phnom Penh City Hall must take immediate and decisive action to address this persistent problem before it gets further out of hand.
Ten years ago, volunteers were often seen at intersections, helping to ensure drivers respected pedestrian zones and traffic signals. Their absence in recent years has led to a noticeable increase in violations. The lack of visible enforcement emboldens poor driving behaviour and shows disregard for traffic laws.
It is disheartening to see roadsides and even pavements taken over by parked cars. This practice must stop, as it significantly worsens congestion and contributes to public frustration.
It is also frustrating that such behaviour contributes to longer traffic jams. Some drivers ignore “No left turn” or “No right turn” signs, while others blatantly disobey one-way traffic rules by driving in the wrong direction. This is another serious issue that needs to be addressed. If left unchecked, these violations become repeated offences and appear to be ignored by authorities.
Why hasn’t Phnom Penh City Hall introduced effective measures to tackle these issues? People are fed up. It’s not only a logistical challenge—it’s an eyesore and a symbol of inaction.
The time to act is now. Traffic police need to be visibly present and actively managing problem intersections. City authorities must enforce parking regulations, reclaim pedestrian spaces, and ensure traffic laws are respected.
Above all, every road user must take personal responsibility: respect pedestrian crossings, avoid reckless overtaking, refrain from speeding, and never use a phone while driving. If we all do our part—and if authorities step up enforcement—we can begin to untangle the growing knot of Phnom Penh’s traffic crisis.
Concerned citizen
-Khmer Times-
