BANGKOK, Thailand – The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) has stepped up efforts to control black smoke emissions from public buses in Bangkok, following directives from Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. To address air pollution and reduce health risks in urban areas, each bus is now required to undergo daily emissions testing before being allowed to operate.
To strengthen enforcement, the Ministry of Transport has mandated stricter maintenance protocols for public buses. Officials are conducting on-site inspections, while workshops and depots have been instructed to increase cleaning frequency and implement more rigorous servicing measures. The move aims to minimize pollution caused by aging diesel-powered vehicles in the capital.
The BMTA has also lowered its allowable black smoke emission limit from 30% to 20% and conducts tests during both morning and afternoon shifts. Any bus exceeding this threshold is immediately pulled from service for repairs. Maintenance contractors and vehicle inspection teams have been ordered to ensure all buses meet the new standards before returning to operation.
As air quality remains a concern, Surapong said the government will continue to monitor emissions from public buses and enforce regulations to reduce PM2.5 levels, ensuring cleaner air for residents and commuters. (NNT)
