Three homes collapsed into the Mekong River in Phnom Penh’s Prek Leap commune on Saturday morning, with residents blaming sand dredging for the destruction. Two other homes were left uninhabitable due to severe structural damage, and a 20-room rental building was partially submerged, leaving its owner devastated.

Locals say they have long witnessed sand mining barges near their homes and fear further collapses. However, authorities have denied any link to dredging, calling the disaster a natural occurrence. Despite repeated requests, officials have yet to confirm plans for embankment reinforcements, though the Phnom Penh Municipality is assessing ways to stabilize the riverbank.

Experts warn that uncontrolled sand mining weakens riverbanks, putting infrastructure and lives at risk. Residents are now calling for urgent intervention to prevent further losses before the rainy season intensifies the situation.

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