Phnom Penh:Cambodians residing in Phnom Penh have started traveling back to their hometowns to celebrate the Pchum Ben Festival with their families. The Royal Government has facilitated this movement by providing free public bus services for the annual holiday.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, many residents gathered at various bus stops across the capital early this morning to take advantage of the complimentary transportation. The initiative is part of the government's efforts to ease travel expenses during Pchum Ben, also known as the Festival of the Dead, which is observed from October 10 to 12 this year.

H.E. Heng Sour, the Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, and H.E. Khuong Sreng, the Governor of Phnom Penh, personally saw off travelers at a bus stop located at Russey Keo Public Park in Khan Russey Keo. They were joined by their colleagues to ensure the smooth operation of the service.

Approximately 100 buses are running free transport within Phnom Penh, while an additional 500 buses are in service for routes between the capital and the provinces from October 9 to 13. This transportation initiative is expected to facilitate the movement of a large number of people who are planning to visit pagodas, travel to tourist destinations, and participate in various recreational activities during the festival, which is one of Cambodia's most significant annual events.