PURSAT, Cambodia, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Built by a Chinese company here in Cambodia's western Pursat province, the nation's tallest bridge is earning widespread praise for unlocking trade and travel across the Stung Russei Chrum River valley.
Constructed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation and opened in May last year, the 80-meter-tall Techo Santepheap Russei Chrum Bridge is transforming local commerce by linking remote farms directly to markets.
Framed by wonderful panoramic views of lush green forests, the 530-meter-long by 10-meter-wide bridge attracts commuters and tourists alike, who pull over to admire the stunning scenery, snap photos, and enjoy the refreshing breeze.
Spanning National Road 10 in Veal Veng district's Osom commune, the tallest bridge sits adjacent to both a national nature reserve and a protected water source.
Koy Phally, a 60-year-old roadside vendor near the bridge, said the bridge has played a vital role in improving local livelihoods by allowing farmers to easily transport their agricultural produce to markets.
"I'm fortunate to live near such a beautiful road and bridge," she told Xinhua on Tuesday. "Flanked by stunning scenery, they have attracted tourists to the province and boosted the sale of local goods."
Phally is grateful to the Chinese company for building the bridge, noting that it attracts many weekend tourists eager to experience its height.
"Because the road is in excellent condition, transporting goods is fast and efficient," the mother of nine children said.
According to Phally, previously, it was very difficult to travel across the river due to mud, potholes, and steep mountain slopes, but those challenges are now gone.
Sim Sam Ol, another 78-year-old street vendor near the bridge, said the bridge has ended decades of isolation for this remote community, turning a treacherous journey into a simple, minutes-long drive.
"Although I am old and do not have much time left, I am very thankful to the government for partnering with China to build this economy-driven road," he told Xinhua. "This road is truly beautiful. At my age, I have never seen such a nice road until now."
Sam Ol said this bridge has not only drastically streamlined daily travel and the transportation of agricultural goods, but also served as a vital catalyst for long-term community development and economic growth within the local region.
Phan Rim, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, said the bridge highlighted the close cooperation between Cambodia and China under the Belt and Road Initiative.
"The bridge has generated profound economic advantages, facilitating efficient transit while mitigating travel durations and logistics costs," he told Xinhua. ■