BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Land Transport (DLT), following the government and Ministry of Transport’s safety policies, has issued a directive requiring all public buses using CNG and LPG fuel to undergo mandatory safety inspections, October 8. These inspections must be completed at any of the Bangkok Transport Offices (Districts 1-5), provincial transport offices, or their branches from today until November 30, to ensure the safety of passengers.
The DLT’s announcement emphasizes maximum safety measures for buses using compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Operators are required to bring their buses in for a thorough inspection, checking key safety aspects such as gas cylinders, safety equipment, and emergency exits. Gas cylinders must not be deformed, corroded, or expired, and must match the records in the DLT’s inspection system. Emergency exits, seatbelts, fire extinguishers, and other safety features will also be inspected for compliance.
If buses fail the inspection due to issues like expired gas cylinders, equipment malfunctions, or gas leaks, the DLT will mark the vehicles as unsafe for use. The buses must be repaired and re-inspected before they are allowed back into service.
The DLT is urging operators to complete inspections by November 30, at no cost. Operators can also schedule their inspections in advance to avoid traffic congestion and minimize delays. For those undergoing inspection at Bangkok Transport Office District 5, buses can park at Bang Sue Grand Station, a designated area provided in cooperation with the State Railway of Thailand.
For buses in Bangkok, the DLT has set specific inspection deadlines:
- Large non-regular buses (CNG), as well as vans and minibuses, must complete inspections by October 31.
- Large regular buses (CNG) and LPG-powered buses must be inspected by November 30.
The DLT has also coordinated with the Ministry of Education, asking schools to refrain from using these buses for field trips or transportation until the inspections are complete. In cases where chartered buses must be used, schools are advised to coordinate with local transport offices to ensure the vehicles are safe and prepared for travel. (TNA)
