Delays in the completion of some parts of the $2 billion Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway has resulted in a September launch date, two months later than planned, said Kong Vimean, Ministry of Public Works and Transport secretary of state.

The 190km expressway built by China Road and Bridge Construction Co Ltd is 94 per cent complete. The delay has been compounded by heavy rains.

Works began after the groundbreaking ceremony officiated by Prime Minister Hun Sen in 2019.

Vimean said this in response to numerous questions by people who wanted to know when they can drive on the expressway.

To date, some 70 per cent and 80 per cent of road safety fences, parks and road barriers have been built, respectively, while road traffic signs are not up yet.

In addition, a few flyovers and parking spots are not yet complete.

He noted that the team is “speeding up” the construction in time for the new launch date in September.

“The remaining work will be completed by the end of August. The ministry and the company have discussed and set a tentative opening in early September 2022,” he said.

In April this year, Minister of Public Works and Transport Sun Chanthol inspected the progress of this road and confirmed that the road was built using technology and met high standards.

Chanthol said the road will contribute to economic growth in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, enabling it to grow “faster than usual”.

The expressway will result in faster travel, reduce costs and time and cut down road accidents on National Road 4.

It would also complement the development of the Sihanoukville master plan with plans of turning the city into a multi-purpose special economic zone.

The road has a width of 24.5 meters with a two-lanes and two-way road with vegetation in the middle of the road.

It would have a barrier on the side of the road to prevent animals and people from crossing. The expressway also has rest areas for motorists.

According to the initial plan, the total completion of the expressway is planned for May next year.