Water Taxi: A promising alternative to road transport

Launched in April 2018 by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Phnom Penh water taxi service has attracted over 30,000 passengers in the past nine months — averaging around 3,500 users per month. According to Met Measpheakdey, spokesperson for the Phnom Penh Municipality (as reported by the AKP), the service is expected to remain free throughout 2019. Equipped with air conditioning and seating, the capital's nine daily water taxis have delighted tens of thousands of commuters since their debut. Inspired by Bangkok’s river shuttle system, this service runs north to south through Phnom Penh, between the Prek Phnov Bridge and the town of Takmao, with a total journey time of 45 minutes. For now, the blue boat line stops at five designated stations and complements other public transport options such as city buses and the airport train service.

(Route of Phnom Penh’s river shuttle. ©PPP)

Plans for expansion in 2019

Currently able to accommodate around 50 passengers per trip, the water taxi is expected to undergo several changes in the coming year, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. The objective: to significantly reduce traffic congestion during peak hours in the heart of the capital. For now, users benefit from a free service, but according to The Phnom Penh Post, it is likely to become fee-based in the future — with fares projected around $1.40 USD (5,400 riels) per person. Still, this would remain cheaper than a tuk-tuk or a taxi for a similar route. Among its most praised advantages are the reduction of traffic-related stress, the cut in air pollution, and the original, pleasant experience of water travel. Officials also confirmed that the ministry is currently working on adding ten new stops, which would bring the total to 15 stations.

(Timetable and frequency of Phnom Penh’s water taxi service. ©PPP)

Thibault Bourru