The Preah Sihanouk provincial administration has notified merchants selling goods at the beach located in Village 1, Commune III, Sihanoukville, to remove their booths from the coast within 15 days from May 5.

The notification letter was signed by governor Kuoch Chamroeun on Monday.

It said the booths affect public security and mar the beauty of the beach, which is used by national and international tourists.

The administration said if the merchants declined to take down their booths, the administration would forcibly remove them and bear no responsibility for any compensation.

Administrative spokesman Kheang Phearum said the authorities want to develop the area to increase tourism.

“There are around 10 booths on the beach. This beach shall remain a public one as stated in the provincial notification,” Phearum said.

Cambodian National Research Organisation (CNRO) director Sok Sokhum said the development of infrastructure in Preah Sihanouk has been progressing according to plan.

“The implementation of this rule is similar to the previous one that was used at Ochheuteal Beach,” Sokhum said.