By APD writer Kin Ratha

PENOM PENH, NOV.22 (APD) -- Cambodia’s traditional water festival was officially opened by King Nordom Sihamoni, and Prime Minister Hun Sen on Wednesday.

The Water Festival is one of the biggest events in the Cambodian calendar, attracting both local and international tourists. It takes place from Wednesday until Friday and the boat races, trade fair and live performances hosted during the Water Festival will attract roughly two million people.

Some neigh on 300 boats, propelled by 19,000 oarsmen, are expected to race on the Tonlé Sap River in front of the Royal Palace.

City Hall says more than 10,000 security forces will be deployed to provide security for the event.

Mean Chanyada, Phnom Penh deputy governor, says that the issue of security was discussed with Governor Khuong Sreng last week.

“This year, 12,754 security forces will be deployed to ensure safety and public order so that visitors can enjoy the event,” Mr Chanyada says.

He says that 298 boats will participate in races this year, while another 15 vessels will take part in the nightly illuminated boat processions.

After the tragic events on the last day of the festival in 2010, it was canceled for the following three years. The fest was revived in 2014, but with fewer spectators than in previous years, and in 2015 the government pulled the plug due to the river’s low water level.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)