Cambodia recently reopened the last section of a railway line running from the capital Phnom Penh to the Thai border. The recent rail lines within the region are expected to spice up economic activity.
Cambodians were stuffed with pride when the primary train in many years left the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh last month for the border town of Poipet, effectively connecting northern Cambodia with the south.
This railway line will soon cross the border and connect with Thailand. It is predicted to be popular with travelers and increase trade between Thailand and Cambodia.
Sitting on the train to Poipet on a quiet Sunday morning, music teacher Hang Sothanun said he was comfortable to now have the opportunity to board the train.
“I actually have to travel everywhere in the country, mostly by bus or automobile. But the train is admittedly nice. It’s relaxing and offers a really nice view of the environment,” he told DW.
Cambodia’s railway, originally built during French colonial rule, has been badly damaged and neglected during many years of war and poverty. Just two years ago, the country’s first line opened, connecting Phnom Penh with the coastal city of Sihanoukville.
Good alternative?
The railway currently ends at Poipet, a Cambodian town on the border with Thailand. But the train is predicted to succeed in the Thai capital, Bangkok, soon. Observers say it could strengthen trade ties between the 2 countries.
Last yr, trade flows between Thailand and Cambodia were valued at $6.16 billion (€5.3 billion), a rise of just about 10 percent in comparison with 2016. The neighbours hope to extend this value to $15 billion by 2020.
To achieve this goal, a bilateral working group was established earlier this yr to deal with trade issues, attract Thai investors to Cambodia and monitor progress on initiatives, Khmer times reported.
Source : DW
