Phnom Penh, June 13, 2024: Four Kiha-183 Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains successfully completed a test run on the Northern Railway line from Phnom Penh to Kampong Chhnang Province, covering a distance of over 55 kilometers on the morning of June 12, 2024. This follows an earlier successful trial on the Southern Railway line from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh on June 8, 2024.

Phorn Rim, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, reported that the trains were tested at speeds ranging from 30 to 50 km/h, adhering to established safety standards.

The tests were meticulously monitored by the technical team from the Department of Railways, following significant adjustments including the calibration of the brake system and the modification of the wheel gauge from the Japanese standard of 1067 mm to the Cambodian standard of 1000 mm.

During the trial, the joint team from the Department of Railways and Royal Railway Cambodia (RRC) conducted thorough inspections and evaluations of the trains' operational systems. This included checks on the braking systems, air conditioning, passenger doors, safety features, and other equipment to ensure the highest safety standards for passenger service.

Upon official launch, the Kiha-183 trains will operate on two routes:

The Southern Railway from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, designed for speeds up to 80 km/h.

The Northern Railway from Phnom Penh to Poipet, with speeds maintained between 30-50 km/h.

The introduction of the Kiha-183 is expected to enhance the efficiency and safety of rail transport in Cambodia, providing a reliable alternative for travelers between these major cities.