Bangkok: The government is set to facilitate the travel of citizens during the upcoming New Year long weekend in 2026, ensuring safe and convenient journeys for those returning to their hometowns or going on vacation. Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Department of Highways, Ministry of Transport, will open the intercity expressway No. 6 (M6), specifically the 'Bang Pa-in - Nakhon Ratchasima' section, for trial use. This 196-kilometer stretch will be accessible free of charge throughout the New Year holiday period.
According to Thai News Agency, the initiative aims to ease travel, reduce congestion on primary routes, and alleviate traffic heading to the Northeast region. The trial period will span from December 26, 2025, to January 5, 2026, covering a total of 11 days. During this time, the "Bang Pa-in - Pak Chong" section will function as a one-way route. The outbound direction from Bangkok will be operational from December 26, 2025, at 00:01 to January 1, 2026, at 24:00. Conversely, the inbound direction to Bangkok will be available from January 2, 2026, at 06:00 to January 5, 2026, at 24:00. A temporary closure is scheduled for January 2, 2026, from 00:01 to 06:00 to allow for traffic direction switching. The Pak Chong - Nakhon Ratchasima section will facilitate two-way traffic continuously.
The trial of the M6 motorway will be restricted to four-wheeled vehicles with a speed limit of 80 km/h for safety reasons. Access and exit will be available through seven toll plazas: Bang Pa-in, Hin Kong, Saraburi, Kaeng Khoi, Pak Chong, Si Khiew, and Kham Thale So.
Mr. Siripong emphasized that the government, through the Ministry of Transport, is committed to ensuring that "Thai people travel happily, safely, and with peace of mind, with the government by their side every step of the way." This initiative reflects the government's concern for the safety and convenience of citizens traveling during the New Year festival in 2026.