2010-11-24 The streets are quiet in Phnom Penh; the boulevard that lines the Tonle Sap River is taking a breath from the millions of feet it supported during the annual water festival. It’s shiny new tiles, inaugurated only months ago, are grey and tired.This year’s festival, the most anticipated and celebrated in the country that attracted up to four million people, was considered one of the best ever by those who revelled in the three-day boating event.The city opened itself up to its hoards of visitors, with the government keen to show off the development and progress the capital has experienced in the last year. Crowds immersed the riverside as well as the parks that dot the road to Diamond Island, a large commercial centre with exhibition halls, wedding venues and food stalls. The city was alive with a contagious upbeat vibe that reverberated from street to street, from person to person.Around 400 boats raced for glory on the river, which usually claims at least one life – but this year, no one was hurt and there were no fatalities. The authorities were relieved and quickly announced the event a success.The festival spirit was high on the last night with a concert on Diamond Island. The event attracted thousands of Cambodians, who crossed the recently completed bridge on their way home. Lit with blue and red chain lights, the bridge was a symbol of a modern Cambodia full of potential and hope.Then around 10pm, the tragedy unfolded. As hundreds of people crossed the bridge, a mass panic spread. What caused this panic is subject to an enquiry. It may have been rumours that the bridge was unstable, a fight or a human jam in which people tried to struggle their way ou ...