The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is reviewing a draft sub-decree on speed limits for all vehicles on roads to reduce traffic accidents.

The draft, which comprises four chapters and 13 articles, was discussed among 25 leaders and relevant officials during an internal meeting lead by minister Peng Ponea on October 17.

Adjustments were made to certain terms to better align with the current social context.

“The draft aims to regulate speeds of all types of vehicles on the road, ensuring safer travel and efficient time use. We also have an expressway to consider,” said ministry spokesperson Phan Rim on October 18.

Kim Pagna, country director of the Asia Injury Prevention (AIP) Foundation, emphasised the importance of the draft. He encouraged the ministry and relevant institutions to engage with stakeholders, particularly civil society organisations, for essential input.

He said that speeding is a major cause of traffic accidents resulting in death and injury.

Pagna also provided suggestions to be incorporated into the draft, including a speed limit of 30km per hour in school zones throughout the country and 50km/h for trucks transporting workers even outside urban areas.

“Implementing these measures will undoubtedly safeguard children, students and workers on the roads,” he noted.

He highlighted the dangers of excessive speeds, referring to vehicles on highways previously observed travelling between 120 to 200km/h. He cautioned that such speeds not only endanger drivers but also pose risks to others.