The Ministry of Interior called for large freight vehicles to cease operations in order to reduce congestion and prevent accidents during the Pchum Ben holiday from Tuesday, October 1 to Thursday, October 3.

Deputy spokesman for the ministry Touch Sokha conveyed the instructions of interior minister Sar Sokha, urging transportation companies, particularly those operating large trucks, to educate their drivers on maintaining safe speeds and exercising extreme caution.

He also encouraged local authorities, national police forces and the public to collaborate in maintaining traffic order and security, creating a smooth environment for citizens.

He suggested that, to ease congestion in busy market areas, ropes, barriers or police should be strategically placed to help manage traffic flow.

The spokesman reminded drivers not to force their way forward by crossing into opposing lanes.

During the festival, which runs from September 18 to October 3, deputy prime minister Sokha, also chairman of the National Road Safety Committee (NRSC), called on all road users to follow traffic laws and take precautions to prevent accidents.

Deputy National Police chief Chev Hak, responsible for traffic and public order, was unavailable for comment on September 30.

In 2023, during the official three-day holiday, traffic accidents resulted in 22 fatalities and 79 injuries.

The spokesman reiterated that all road users have a duty to obey traffic laws to protect lives and stressed the importance of wearing helmets, driving cautiously and exercising patience and courtesy on the roads.

"All drivers must absolutely refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol," he added.