Launched in April 2018 by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the water taxi has attracted more than 30,000 passengers over the nine months elapsed. That's an average of 3,500 users per month. According to Met Measpheakdey, spokesperson for the Municipality of Phnom Penh as reported by AKP, this service should remain free throughout 2019.

Equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating, nine daily water taxis operating in Phnom Penh have delighted 30,000 passengers since last April. Inspired by Bangkok's river shuttles, this service, which traverses Phnom Penh from north to south between the Prek Phnov bridge and the city of Takmao for a total journey of 45 minutes, complements other public transport options such as buses and the train, which connects the city center to the airport. The blue boat currently has five stops.

Route map of the Phnom Penh river shuttle. ©PPP

Expansion Plans for 2019

The water taxi, which currently accommodates around fifty passengers, is set to undergo significant changes this year, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. The goal is to dramatically reduce traffic congestion during peak hours in the heart of the capital. Users also stand to benefit from this free service, which nevertheless, according to the Phnom Penh Post, is likely to eventually become a paid service at $1.40 per person (5,400 riels). This would still be more affordable than a taxi or tuk-tuk for the same route. The reduction in traffic stress and the air pollution typically associated with major roads during morning and late afternoon hours, combined with the novelty of this mode of transport, are compelling arguments in favor of the water taxi. Ministry officials have indicated they are currently working on adding ten new stops in the near future, which would bring the total to 15.

Schedule and frequency of the Phnom Penh water taxi ©PPP

Thibault Bourru