Phnom penh: Many Cambodians have begun leaving Phnom Penh capital for their hometowns to celebrate the Pchum Ben Festival, expressing gratitude to the Royal Government for arranging free bus services to facilitate their travel.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the annual initiative aims to ease the financial burden on citizens, especially low-income families, and ensure they can reunite with their loved ones for this important religious holiday. Recognising the challenges and expenses of travel during the peak festival season, the Royal Government, under the directive of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, has deployed nearly 600 buses to serve the public free of charge.

At designated bus terminals in Phnom Penh, long lines of passengers carrying offerings and luggage could be seen boarding the buses. “I am so happy that the government provides this free bus service,” said Em Channy, who was travelling to Siem Reap province. “Normally, bus tickets or a taxi would cost me a lot, which is difficult for my family. This allows me to save money for my family and for the offerings at the pagoda.”

Thol Veasna, a construction worker, shared a similar view. “This is a great help. Travelling home during the holidays is very expensive. With this free service, I can use the money I save for other important things during the festival.”

Another passenger, Ratha Sotheavin, also expressed appreciation as she boarded her bus to Siem Reap. “I want to sincerely thank the government for thinking of us.”

According to the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration, a total of 597 buses have been prepared for the Pchum Ben holiday from Sept. 20 to 25. Of these, 497 are dedicated to transporting citizens to and from the provinces along seven major routes, while the remaining 100 continue to operate on regular routes within the capital.