Kratie — The Kratie Mekong River Bridge has achieved a significant construction milestone with the installation of its final structural beam, marking near-completion of the project. On May 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, the Shanghai Construction Group (SCG) installed the last beam at the 26th span, thereby connecting the entire bridge structure, according to an official statement from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. The bridge, spanning a total length of 1,761 meters, is composed of three sections: the eastern segment features 20 T-shaped beams, the central part comprises six box beams, and the western segment includes 10 beams. These structural elements are critical to ensuring the bridge’s stability, durability, and safety for future users. As of early May 2025, the project’s overall progress has reached approximately 94.10%. The development encompasses not only the bridge but also a main roadway measuring 15,490 kilometers, linking Kratie Province to adjacent regions. This includes 7,684 km on the east bank and 7,806 km on the west bank. Additionally, four bypass roads totaling 16,208 km are under construction, with progress at nearly 70%. If the current pace continues smoothly, authorities forecast that the Kratie Mekong Bridge will be opened to public traffic by September 2025, offering a critical transportation artery for regional development. This infrastructure project aligns with Cambodia’s national development priorities. As part of the first phase of the Pentagon Strategy’s five key pillars—people, roads, water, electricity, and technology—the bridge aims to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic activity, and promote regional integration. Recognized as the backbone of economic progress, modern roads and bridges are essential to improving transportation efficiency and supporting socio-economic development. The Kratie Bridge is a strategic initiative designed to connect communities across the Mekong River, fostering economic opportunities and social cohesion between the eastern and western parts of the province. It also plays an instrumental role in opening access to remote northeastern areas, linking Kratie with major national roads that serve provinces such as Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Ratanakiri, and Mondulkiri, ultimately facilitating trade and mobility.