Phnom Penh-Poipet High-Speed Railway Project Postponed

In a significant shift in transportation strategy, Cambodia has officially postponed the ambitious project aimed at upgrading the northern h...

In a significant shift in transportation strategy, Cambodia has officially postponed the ambitious project aimed at upgrading the northern high-speed rail line from Phnom Penh to Poipet, Banteay Meanchey province. The plan, which would have enabled trains to operate at speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour, has been put on hold.

The decision to postpone the project comes after Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed concerns regarding its feasibility and cost-effectiveness. During a recent address at Sihanoukville Port, Prime Minister Manet emphasized the importance of strengthening the existing rail network to enhance speeds, rather than investing in a high-speed railway, which he deemed too expensive.

With only approximately 6 percent of Cambodia's imports currently being transported by rail, the government aims to bolster its rail freight capabilities. By shifting focus towards improving existing infrastructure and increasing operational speeds, Cambodia seeks to reduce transportation costs, minimize road damage, and mitigate the risk of accidents associated with road transport.

While the high-speed rail project remains a part of the 2023-2033 master plan outlined by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, no new timeline has been provided for its resumption. Despite repeated attempts to obtain comments from government officials, including HE Phorn Rim, the ministry's spokesperson, no official statement regarding the project's future has been issued.

Chea Chandara, President of the Cambodian Association of Transport and Supply Chains, acknowledged the importance of developing a high-speed rail network to align with global standards. However, he expressed understanding towards the delay, citing budgetary constraints. Chandara remains optimistic about the government's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure, albeit at a slower pace.

Apart from the northern high-speed rail project, Cambodia already boasts a southern railway line connecting Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. Funded by the Asian Development Bank and operated by Royal Railway Cambodia since 2010, these railways serve both freight and passenger transportation needs. Meanwhile, road development initiatives remain under state jurisdiction.

As Cambodia reevaluates its transportation priorities, the postponement of the northern high-speed rail project reflects a shift towards optimizing existing infrastructure. While challenges such as budget constraints and conflicting priorities persist, the government remains committed to enhancing transportation efficiency and connectivity across the country. The future of high-speed rail in Cambodia hangs in the balance as stakeholders navigate the complexities of balancing progress with fiscal responsibility.