Rail Journeys in Thailand Surpass 1.13 Million Trips on Second Day of New Year’s Holiday

Bangkok: The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) reported that rail journeys exceeded 1.13 million trips on the second day of the New Year's holiday period, December 27, 2025, ensuring no passengers were stranded. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pichet Kunathamarak, Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport, announced that 1,147,012 people utilized the rail system on December 27, 2025, which was 1.25% lower than expected. The day proceeded without train accidents or disruptions in the electric train system, marking smooth travel for the holiday period. Intercity trains (SRT) accommodated 87,398 passenger-trips, which was 3.06% lower than anticipated. A total of 209 trains operated, with 104 departing and 105 arriving. The Southern Route was the most popular, followed by the Northeastern, Northern, Eastern, Mae Klong, and Maha Chai routes. All operations at Bangkok (Hua Lamphong) Station and Bangkok Central Station were efficient, with no passengers left stranded. The electric train system witness ed 1,059,614 passenger-trips. The Green Line (BTS), Gold Line, and Pink Line experienced passenger numbers higher than estimated, reflecting a lively tourism atmosphere and New Year's celebrations. The Gold Line, in particular, saw a significant increase in passengers, attributable to the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 event at ICONSIAM. Despite the smooth operations, Mr. Pichet addressed a tragic incident in the early hours of December 28, 2025, where Train No. 134 (Vientiane - Bangkok) fatally struck a person sitting on the tracks. The Department of Rail Transport expressed condolences and urged the public to avoid railway areas for safety. Mr. Pichet emphasized the importance of vigilance and safety at high-risk areas and intersections, instructing officials and rail service providers to prevent accidents and ensure the safe travel of citizens during the festival period. To accommodate the expected travel surge to other provinces, SRT arranged two special passenger trains for the Northern and Southern L ines. In conclusion, Mr. Pichet highlighted the publication of the Rail Transport Act B.E. 2568 (2025) and the Integrated Ticketing System Management Act B.E. 2568 (2025) in the Royal Gazette. These new regulations represent a milestone in enhancing Thailand's rail transport system, ensuring modernization, safety, and sustainable benefits for the Thai people.