Bangkok: Deputy Minister of Transport, Saraphet, inspected the southern transportation sector to ensure readiness for Songkran holidays and emphasized strict safety measures for passengers at all stations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sanphet Bunyamanee, Deputy Minister of Transport, visited the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Borommaratchachonnani) to monitor the readiness of services for people traveling back to their hometowns during the Songkran festival, especially on routes to the South. Accompanying him were Mr. Cheep Nomseian, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, Mr. Chanyasak Ratinnontkul, Head of Borommaratchachonnani Bus Operations (Southern Terminal), and other relevant officials. They provided information on measures to accommodate passengers, including ensuring sufficient buses, inspecting vehicles, and preparing all drivers at every station.
Mr. Sanphet stated that the goal of this site visit was to instill confidence in the public regarding travel. He emphasized that all operators and officials must strictly adhere to safety measures, including inspecting buses before service and ensuring drivers are physically and mentally prepared to ensure maximum safety for passengers throughout the journey. He noted that the Southern Bus Terminal handles approximately 600 bus trips per day, with an estimated average of 12,000 passengers daily. He anticipates increased passenger numbers tomorrow, requiring comprehensive preparations to ensure convenient and safe travel for the public. Furthermore, he confirmed that ticket prices have not been increased during the Songkran festival and long holidays to avoid burdening the public financially.
Finally, Mr. Sanphet emphasized the measures and laws stipulated by the Department of Land Transport, which limit trucks and buses to a maximum of 4 consecutive hours of driving, followed by a break of at least 30 minutes before continuing for another 4 hours (a total of no more than 8 hours in 24 hours). This is to prevent drivers from falling asleep at the wheel, ensuring that people can travel back to their hometowns with peace of mind and safety on all routes.