Phnom penh: As the Khmer New Year approaches, thousands of citizens - particularly garment workers and students - have gathered at designated public bus stations in Phnom Penh to take advantage of free bus services to their hometowns.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the atmosphere at these locations has been bustling and full of excitement since April 12, with long lines of factory workers and students waiting to board buses for their journeys home to celebrate the 2026 Khmer Traditional New Year.

Through the Royal Government's provision of free transport services, many citizens have expressed their appreciation, noting that the initiative not only ensures safety and comfort but also helps ease travel expenses, allowing them to save more for family celebrations.

'I am very happy and relieved to travel home using free public transport to reunite with my family,' said Ms. Sam Srey Yon, who was heading to Oddar Meanchey province. 'I am very grateful to the Royal Government of Cambodia, especially Samdech Prime Minister, for always thinking about people at the grassroots level.'

Similarly, Ms. Thao Nin and Mr. Kem Saray, who were travelling to Kampong Thom province, expressed their gratitude, highlighting that the free service allows them to save on transportation costs amid rising fuel prices.

The Phnom Penh Capital Administration has deployed a total of 600 buses to serve the public over a six-day period, from April 12 to 17, 2026.

Of these, 500 buses are assigned to routes connecting Phnom Penh with provinces across the country, covering six major routes, while the remaining 100 buses operate within Phnom Penh, including the Airport Express service to Techo International Airport.

In addition to free fares, each bus is equipped with air conditioning, and complimentary bottled water is provided to passengers at departure points to ensure comfort during the hot April weather.

The Phnom Penh Capital Administration has also called on company owners, business operators, and transport providers to maintain stable fares during the holiday period, in support of government efforts to ease the financial burden on citizens.