PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s serious fire incidents have skyrocketed in 2024, with the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM) reporting a staggering 602 cases nationally from January to August 20. This marks a sharp increase from the same period last year, when 432 fires occurred.

The toll of these fires has been devastating, with 15 people losing their lives and 45 others injured, according to NCDM.

According to the NCDM Phnom Penh was the hardest hit by serious fires, with 102 cases reported. Battambang and Siem Reap provinces also experienced significant fire activity, with 64 and 41 cases respectively.

Soth Kimkolmony, NCDM spokesperson, reported that the fires left a trail of destruction, affecting 624 residential houses, 120 commercial stalls, 16 warehouses, 20 handicraft factories, and 16 administrative buildings.

In 2023, fires caused damage to 461 homes, 75 market stalls, 16 warehouses, one school, nine handicraft factories, and 11 administrative buildings.

Electrical faults, primarily caused by improper installation and carelessness, are fueling Cambodia's surge in fires, according to Neth Vantha, Director of the Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department.

Vantha warned of a dangerous practice: “At most public and private electric poles, cables like telegraph, fiber optic, and power lines are bundled together. If one catches fire, it can quickly spread to nearby structures, causing significant damage.”

To mitigate this risk, Vantha urged residents to hire qualified technicians to ensure their main wiring systems comply with Electricite du Cambodia's standards.

“This proactive step is crucial for preventing devastating fires,” he stressed.
 

Originally written in Khmer for ThmeyThmey, this story was translated by Chhuon Kongieng for Cambodianess.