The railroad in Cambodia was in a sad state for many decades. Trains seldom traveled between settlements. Trains were constantly breaking down and derailing. It became common for trains to run at such slow speeds that it was quicker to walk. Of course, the residents of these areas were not happy with this state of affairs on the railroad. And so, one day, the residents of Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city and its neighboring villages in the northwest of the country, showed a lot of ingenuity and took the “railroad” business into their own hands. Local “craftsmen” on the running gear of conventional cars put lightweight bamboo platforms, which are powered by a gasoline low-power trailed engine. The people of Cambodia call these dresins “Norries” (Norries), well, in other countries the phenomenon is better known as “bamboo trains.
The reasons for the low speed and frequent breakdowns of trains become clear if you look closely at the local rails. Everyone understands that for trains not to break down and to develop a decent speed requires that the rails were flat. The Cambodian railway is a wonderful curve, going over the horizon. Here is a simple explanation for the poor condition and accidents on the local railroad.
After the heavy trains were replaced with light bamboo trains the speed has increased to 40 km per hour. Of course, this is not the speed we are used to, but compared to what it was and taking into account that the rails are not smoother and the engine power is rather low – you realize that the Cambodians have achieved great success with little effort.
The small three-meter platform made of bamboo seats more than 20 people. High speed isn’t necessary for passenger safety, either. It is clear that the higher the speed, the more likely the “bamboo” will fly into the bushes along with the passengers. The ride on the bamboo train is very useful for those whose fifth point needs a massage, as this “soft car” thoroughly shakes on the bumps.
But, all these disadvantages absolutely do not affect the popularity of this form of transport. People, both local and visitors, with great pleasure use it. One reason for its popularity is that it is practically a free form of public transport. And besides, making such “bamboo” trip you can quietly enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature or meditate, deepening into a quiet contemplation of the inner self. Agree that riding a bicycle or motorcycle will not allow you to do this.
Since there is only one railroad bed, and trains move in both directions, sooner or later they will inevitably meet. This point is solved here surprisingly simple: when one platform notices the other, the passengers of one of them go to a safe distance, taking their “bamboo” train with them. Fortunately, the weight of the platform parts allows even a few women to carry it. When the oncoming bamboo passes, the platform easily and simply returns to its place and continues to follow the interrupted route. The frequency of such manipulation depends on the congestion of the direction and the number of damaged sections on the railroad bed. Unfortunately, damaged sections are quite common despite the fact that the local population tries to the best of their ability to keep it in working order.
The popularity of “bamboo trains” has increased so much that they have become an unofficial subject of the transport system of Cambodia. After all, thanks to them, the Cambodians were able to maintain communication between the remote settlements and provided between them the turnover of goods. In addition to this “typists”, thanks to the great popularity of “bamboo trains” among tourists, have the opportunity to earn extra money to the family budget. After all, for only two dollars a tourist can ride on the amazing local highways, until he is completely satiated.
Recently, the state has slowly started to repair the railroad tracks, build new ones and familiar to you and me trains have become more. Nowadays, bamboo cars, which until recently prevailed on almost all provincial railroad tracks, can be found only in the vicinity of Battambang. Bad or good, only the people of Cambodia know.
If you want to personally enjoy a trip on the “bamboo” – then hurry to visit the country. Well, if you do not have the desire or ability (or both), then we suggest you watch the video. Do not regret it.