A crucial segment of National Road 23, spanning 19.83 kilometers and connecting the Koh Thom bridge base in Koh Thom district to Peam Rang commune in Leuk Dek district, Kandal province, is set for its official inauguration on April 27. This milestone marks the culmination of an intensive nearly three-year repair and maintenance project, undertaken with an investment exceeding $20 million sourced from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) confirmed the upcoming ceremony. In preparation for this significant event, Mr. Phaeng Sovicheano, Secretary of State for the MPWT, convened a preparatory committee meeting on April 20 in Koh Thom district. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of various sub-committees, ensuring all arrangements were meticulously managed for a smooth and successful inauguration.
The renovated stretch of National Road 23 begins at Kilometer 34+400, specifically at the base of the Koh Thom bridge in Chroy Takeo commune. It traverses through Leuk Dek commune within Koh Thom district before extending to Peam Rang commune in Leuk Dek district, where it seamlessly connects with National Road 14 at Kilometer 54+233, all within Kandal province. The official opening ceremony on April 27 is expected to be presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Aun Pornmoniroth, who also serves as the Minister of Economy and Finance.
Construction and rehabilitation work on this nearly 20-kilometer road segment commenced on June 20, 2023. The Cambodian government utilized an ADB concessional loan totaling $21.68 million to elevate the quality of this vital route. The project aimed to significantly improve the road’s condition from the Koh Thom bridge area in Chroy Takeo commune, through Leuk Dek commune in Koh Thom district, up to its junction with National Road 14 in Peam Rang commune, Leuk Dek district, Kandal.
According to statements from Mr. Sun Chanthol, the former Minister of Public Works and Transport and current First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), National Road 23 plays a pivotal role in linking Kandal and Takeo provinces. Travelers utilizing this route will pass through the districts of Samrong, Prey Kabbas, Koh Thom, and Leuk Dek. The comprehensive upgrade included widening the road to 11 meters, featuring an 8-centimeter thick AC asphalt surface. The carriageway itself spans 10 meters, designed to accommodate two lanes of traffic for both vehicles and motorcycles, one in each direction.
Beyond the primary road surface, the project also encompassed the construction of four new bridges, 33 round transverse culverts, 17 box culverts, and 1,558 meters of round side drains. Furthermore, the route has been equipped with modern road signs, markings, kilometer posts, and safety barriers, all installed according to contemporary road engineering standards. The construction work for this segment of National Road 23 was carried out by Heng Sambath Co., Ltd.
Mr. Sun Chanthol underscored the far-reaching benefits of this project, stating, “This represents another new achievement that will significantly contribute to economic development, social well-being, and the safety of our citizens. This road will serve the socio-economic needs of the region, boost the transportation of goods and agricultural products, and facilitate easier and more efficient travel for residents.” He further elaborated on the strategic importance of National Road 23, highlighting its potential to act as a crucial link, connecting with Provincial Road 110 and National Road 21 towards Phnom Penh and the Cambodia-Vietnam border. Additionally, it provides a vital connection to National Road 14, leading to Neak Loeung in Prey Veng province, and integrates with other regional road networks.
