An artist’s rendition of the new bridge from Phnom Penh’s Daun Penh district to Arey Ksat town. Transport ministry
Residents of Arey Ksat town in Kandal province are thrilled by the news that construction of the Cambodia-Korea Friendship Bridge will begin in June next year. Economic analysts emphasise that the bridge will bring numerous benefits, especially by reducing travel time to Phnom Penh.
Phorn Rim, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, announced on August 29 that construction of the long-awaited bridge, which will connect the eastern part of Phnom Penh to the town, is scheduled to commence in June next year.
He said the project is expected to be completed in five years and will be funded by a $235 million loan from South Korea’s Export-Import Bank.
Rim noted that the bridge will span from the area near the Night Market in the capital’s Daun Penh district to Arey Ksat town, covering a total length of 2,375 metres with a width of 27.5 metres.
Keo Duong, a resident of the town, expressed his happiness at the official announcement, noting that he and others have eagerly anticipated this.
"As a resident of Arey Ksat, this news is thrilling because it includes clear information on funding sources and precise planning. I believe other residents of Arey Ksat feel the same excitement," he said.
"Currently, the commute involves a short journey to the ferry dock, but waiting for the ferry and the ride itself consumes a lot of time. The bridge will allow us to travel to Phnom Penh or take our children to school without the concerns that come with ferry travel during bad weather,” he added.
Duong expects that the economy and infrastructure in the town will grow as a result of the new infrastructure, attracting more residents to the area.
Hong Vanak, an economic researcher at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, stated that the bridge will bring many benefits, particularly by drastically cutting travel time to and from Phnom Penh.
He noted that property values in Arey Ksat have already risen following the announcement of the project.
He anticipates that the bridge will spur the growth of condominiums, hotels, restaurants and commercial spaces in the area.
"All these developments will contribute significantly to the economy, bolstering Cambodia's economic resilience and fostering continuous national growth," Vanak said.
