BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has announced measures to make travel more affordable and efficient during the Songkran holiday from April 11 to 17. The ministry is coordinating with airlines, rail services, and bus operators to increase capacity and lower ticket prices, ensuring smoother travel for holidaymakers.
To address rising airfare costs, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand is monitoring ticket pricing while six major airlines have agreed to add 124 flights and 25,000 extra seats. Ticket prices on key domestic routes will be reduced by 30% from the price ceiling, with discounted fares available for purchase from March 11 to 20. Rail and bus services will also be expanded, with the State Railway of Thailand adding 26 special train services and Transport Company Limited deploying 1,000 additional buses to accommodate increased passenger demand.
Road travelers will benefit from temporary toll exemptions on major expressways and motorways, easing congestion during peak travel days. New expressway segments, including sections of the M6 and M81 motorways, will be open for public use to help reduce traffic pressure on existing highways. Authorities will also provide alternative route recommendations to improve travel efficiency.
According to Suriya, enhanced safety measures have been introduced for long-distance buses, including mandatory rest breaks, GPS monitoring for speed control, and onboard attendants for minibuses. Freight transport will be limited during peak travel days to ease congestion, while restrictions on truck parking along road shoulders will be enforced to reduce accident risks.
The Ministry of Transport has assured that no passengers will be left stranded during Songkran, with continuous monitoring of transportation services to maintain smooth operations. Agencies will coordinate efforts to manage traffic flow and passenger safety, ensuring an efficient and comfortable holiday period for travelers nationwide. (NNT)
