Phnom Penh: There may have been 40% less tourists on the roads this Pchum Ben, but the number of accidents, injuries and deaths remained on par with 2020. The National Police’s Department of Traffic and Public Order has released a preliminary report for the three-day holiday.

Between the 5th and 7th of October, a total of 35 road accidents claimed the lives of 14 people and injured a further 64. This is one fatality down on 2020 when 15 people were killed on the country’s roads over the same period.

On the first day of Pchum Ben, nine accidents claimed five lives and put 18 people in hospital. On Pchum Thom, 11 accidents caused 22 injuries and the deaths of three people. On Thursday, 15 accidents occurred, killing six and injuring 24.

Police say dangerous overtaking, carelessness when making turns and speeding were the main causes of accidents. They’ve again warned drivers to be careful on the roads and respect traffic laws, as well as the safety of other road users.