China Good Cars Holding Ltd plans to invest $160 million in a modern heavy vehicle parking terminal on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, said the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

The facility, which would be the first of its kind in the Kingdom, aims to reduce traffic congestion in the capital’s central districts, said the ministry.

It said the proposal was made on Tuesday during a meeting between Minister Sun Chanthol and representatives of the company.

The company also plans to invest in public transportation through the national bus network and connect the city outskirts with the provinces adjacent to the Phnom Penh-Kandal area.

“The minister welcomes and supports the project. He recommends the company to cooperate with the General Department of Road Transport, thoroughly prepare technical specifications and apply for investment registration at the Council for the Development of Cambodia’s One Window Service,” said the ministry.

Cambodia Logistics Association president Sin Chanthy said the facility would improve freight transportation and logistics in the Kingdom.

He said the private transport sector currently faces a severe shortage of lorry parking. “I support the project. It is a necessary facility for lorry owners to park safely and legally, and it will also reduce traffic congestion.”

The number of registered vehicles in the Kingdom rose 13 per cent last year. New registered vehicles last year totalled 640,183 – 15,956 heavy vehicles, 92,958 cars and 531,269 motorcycles, an annual report from the ministry said.