A Japanese firm has delivered over 3,000 streetlights to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport for installation along roads, bridges and high-risk zones. Engineers have already set up over 2,000 lights in locations along national roads 2, 5, 6 and 61. The handover ceremony took place following a joint inspection on September 13 by engineers from the ministry’s Department of Road Safety and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to review the installation of solar LED lamps in accident-prone areas. According to the ministry, the September 18 handover ceremony for solar LED lights and drilling equipment from Fuji Construction Works Co Ltd was attended by minister Peng Ponea and JICA Cambodia office chief representative Sanui Kazumasa. The ministry reported that streetlights have been installed to enhance visibility for drivers and promote greater vigilance on the roads. “The company provided 3,100 units, of which 2,669 have been installed in 75 locations along National Roads 2, 5, 6 and 61,” it said. The social media post added that the remaining lamps and two drilling rigs were handed over to the ministry for later use. Kim Pagna, country director of the Asia Injury Prevention (AIP) Foundation, emphasised the importance of addressing road safety to reduce fatalities and injuries stemming from accidents. He said the authorities must undertake efforts in the areas of education, law enforcement, vehicle safety, road safety signage and emergency aid. Pagna said the installation of street lighting aligns with road safety objectives and can significantly diminish the toll of accidents by enhancing visibility, adding that he wishes to see the continued collaboration of relevant ministries and partners in the installation of LED lamps in high-risk areas. “I greatly appreciate the company, aided by JICA, for supplying equipment aimed at aiding nighttime drivers. Our aim is to witness further installations at curves, intersections and village roads. Additionally, we need an increase in road signs,” he said. According to the National Road Safety Committee (NRSC), there were 2,976 road accidents reported in 2022, including 1,709 fatalities and over 4,000 injuries. Of these incidents, 1,027 cases were forwarded to the courts, with 121 cases already adjudicated and 664 under investigation.