National Police Chief Calls for Enhanced Traffic Safety Measures in Cambodia

National Police Chief General Sar Thet has launched a call to action to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries nationwide in Cambodia. In a meeting with senior National Police officers, company representatives, and over 600 transport agents in Phnom Penh, Gen Thet emphasized the importance of stricter enforcement of traffic law while also promoting education and collaboration to address traffic safety challenges. He directed government departments to work with transport companies to regularly update driver data and encouraged holding periodic traffic safety review meetings.

Key Takeaways:

• Gen Thet called for traffic law and road safety training to be provided to transport service providers at least once every six months.
• Government departments were directed to work with companies to regularly update driver data, including identities, licenses, experience, and skill levels.
• The National Police Chief emphasized the importance of stricter enforcement of traffic law while recommending on-the-spot education for minor violations rather than immediate fines or vehicle impoundments.
• Gen Thet stressed the need to strengthen the discipline, integrity, and professionalism of traffic police officers to prevent public criticism and improve the resolution of traffic congestion.
• Motorists were urged to strictly follow traffic signs and signals and avoid using mobile phones for navigation or calls while driving.
• Drivers were discouraged from engaging in reckless behavior such as racing or illegal overtaking.
• The meeting was attended by over 600 transport agents, senior National Police officers, and company representatives.

Statistics:

• In the first half of the year, there were 1,066 traffic crashes across the country, resulting in 694 deaths and 1,476 injuries.
• 58% of the traffic crashes occurred at night.
• 849 of the injuries were serious.
• 1,066 traffic crashes is a significant increase in the number of accidents compared to previous years, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures.

Sources:

• Lieutenant General Chev Hak as quoted in the meeting minutes.
• National Police General Sar Thet at a meeting in Phnom Penh on Friday.