(Kampong Cham): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called for stricter and more consistent enforcement against overloaded vehicles, saying protecting Cambodia's road network depends on both quality construction and compliance with weight-limit regulations.

Speaking on Tuesday (July 7) at the inauguration of National Road No. 7 (Skun–Kampong Cham) in Kampong Cham Province, the premier urged transport operators, relevant authorities, and the public to comply with traffic laws, particularly those governing overloaded transport.

He underlined that road maintenance must be continuous and that enforcement should be sustained, especially following recent legal amendments that impose tougher penalties for overloading violations.

"Road maintenance and repairs must be ongoing. While we've addressed this issue before, enforcement has been inconsistent. We now need sustainable enforcement against overloaded transport. With the law amendment increasing penalties for overloading violations, I urge everyone to comply with traffic laws," Samdech Thipadei said.

The prime minister said extending the lifespan of roads would enable the government to make better use of limited public resources.

"Extending the lifespan of our roads allows funds for repairs to be redirected towards building bridges, constructing concrete roads in villages, and improving other roads across the country," he added.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei reiterated that protecting Cambodia's road infrastructure requires two key measures: ensuring roads are built to technical standards from the outset and rigorously enforcing weight limits to prevent premature deterioration.
=FRESH NEWS