Battambang: Authorities have prohibited people from using the old stone bridge that is more than 100-year’s old in Battambang as it is dilapidated.

Battambang provincial governor Sok Lou advised residents not to cross the bridge to avoid accidents. He wrote on his Facebook page: "The old stone bridge in Battambang is dilapidated. Please understand and be patient, and do not cross it."

He stressed that in preparation for the upcoming New Year of 2023, the province will prepare lighting so that people can take pictures of the bridge from a distance.

Mr. Soeum Bunrith, Deputy Governor of Battambang Province, stated that the old stone bridge is so worn down that the province has prohibited cars from driving on it since 1993. Motorcycles and bicycles have been permitted to cross it until 2019. By the end of 2022, pedestrians will also be prohibited.

"The provincial administration no longer allows pedestrians to cross the bridge because it is unsafe," the Deputy Governor told EAC News via telegram. "It will not be used until the repairs are complete."

According to Mr. Soeum Bunrith, it is very important to restore this 106-year-old ancient bridge and ensure its preservation.

He said: "Without repair, this old stone bridge will not last. The provincial administration lacks the budget for repairs. "The work of preserving and maintaining the old stone bridge in front of the provincial hall needs the assistance of the relevant ministries and institutes in repairing in accordance with the original architectural style of the bridge in order to preserve it and prevent from collapsing from a natural disaster or flood."

The old stone bridge in Battambang City was built in 1916, but it is now dilapidated with visible cracks. It should be noted that the provincial administration has already built a new stone bridge near the old one.