In preparation for our upcoming 2011 Angkor Photo Workshop, I spent the day riding the bamboo train in Battambang, checking out the logistics, identifying interesting locations and probably most importantly, getting to know the locals.

I met an interesting 83 year old man who has lived along the railroad tracks in Battambang all his life. Wearing the a traditional Kroma (Khmer scarf) and an Au’acha (traditional style shirt)

I found the man sitting in a small shop near the train station. We struck up a conversation in his broken  English and the small number of Khmer words that I know. Soon, a crowd gathered and thankfully, someone who’s English was quite good came to translate.

After talking for a while and making some photos, the man asked that when I return, I bring a printed photo of him. I said that I would be back next year and would bring him a picture.

The Bamboo train is an interesting phenomenon that is likely to see its end within a few years. The Cambodian rail company is upgrading the tracks and when the new trains and tracks are in place the bamboo train will be stopped for safety reasons. I wonder what the people who’s lives depend on the meager earnings gained by moving passengers and goods along the lines will do for income.

i Phone Video

Bamboo Train

Getting started down the tracks

Track-side scene