The Department of Transport and Public Works of the Phnom Penh Municipality will

introduce measures restricting cyclos to help cope with chaotic traffic on city roads,

said Peng Sokun on Dec. 22, deputy of the department.

Beginning early next year, Sokun said the measures were aimed at improving the beauty

of the capital, ensuring orderly traffic as well as safety of both drivers and passengers

and preventing unregistered ownership.

According to Sokun, a concrete action plan targeting cyclo drivers will go into effect

as a means of getting the three-wheelers to abide by traffic laws.

"The cyclo drivers are very insolent. If they collide with your car-even if

you're in the right-you never get compensation because you know how much money they

make a day. They would beg for your forgiveness, then you take your car to the garage,"

he said, adding that there were about 15,000 cyclos adding congestion to city streets

in the capital.

He said the department would seek to lock up 5,000 cyclos.

Cyclo-makers would also be closely monitored to insure they provide accommodation

for drivers who do not hold residency permits in Phnom Penh. Cyclo owners would also

be responsible to insure maintenance before releasing cyclos on the streets.

Sokun said owners would face fines of up to 10,000 riels if cyclos are found on the

streets without number plates, side mirrors, night lamps, bells or with torn roofs.

All cyclos must be painted in green or blue with yellow roofs. Seats must be white.

All drivers are also supposed to be in as yet unspecified uniforms and carry both

a drivers license and a traffic-code book.