When Pattaya’s Central Road bypass tunnel opened, police vigorously enforced rules barring motorcycles and large trucks from using the underpass. But that didn’t last long.
Tourists and residents both have complained that large numbers of motorcyclists are speeding through the tunnel with little fear of being hit with the 1,000-baht fine. Police are nowhere to be seen.
In August 2017, when the tunnel opened, 18 motorists were stopped and fined in its first three days of operation. Police said numerous signs clearly pointed out what vehicles aren’t allowed through the underpass.
Now drivers simply ignore them and police don’t bother to enforce them.
In fact, motorbikes, tuk-tuks and carts are not allowed to use the tunnel as there is no dedicated lane for them. Also prohibited are large trucks, trucks carrying hazardous materials or trailers longer than five meters.
The speed limit inside the tunnel is 80 kilometers per hour and stopping inside the underpass is prohibited. But random checks show motorcycle daredevils are speeding through at breakneck speeds.
 |
 |
