Bangkok: This Songkran, the Ministry of Transport is taking steps to reduce travel expenses by offering free use of expressways, while Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasizes the importance of "don't drink and drive" for public safety.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior is concerned about the safety of the public during the Songkran festival, as many people have already begun traveling. He instructed relevant agencies to facilitate the travel of the public.
The Ministry of Transport has implemented measures to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce expenses during the holiday season. The expressway tolls will be excluded on Burapha Vithee and Kanchanaphisek Expressways (Bang Phli-Suksawat) from April 10-16, 2026, and on Udon Ratchaya, Sri Ratch, and Chalerm Mahanakhon Expressways from April 13-15, 2026.
Additionally, free access to expressways (motorways) will be available for seven days, from April 10-16, 2026, covering three main routes: M7 Bangkok-Chonburi-Pattaya-Map Ta Phut, M9 Bangkok Outer Ring Road, and M81 Bang Yai - Kanchanaburi. Free trial runs are also offered on new routes M6 (Bang Pa-in - Nakhon Ratchasima) and M82 (Bang Khun Thian - Ekachai) to reduce congestion.
The Bridge Construction Division of the Department of Highways has announced a temporary halt to construction work and the restoration of the main road surface on Rama 2 Road to facilitate travel. They have inspected the construction site of the Intercity Highway No. 82 (M82) for safety and stability after the completion of structural installations.
To ensure smooth travel for motorists, the Department of Highways has temporarily suspended all construction work and restored the road surface in the main lanes on Rama 2 Road. The public is urged to review information and plan their journeys in advance, with traffic conditions and further travel information available through the Department of Highways hotline at 1586, accessible 24 hours a day.