UTHAI THANI, 2 June 2014 – Several provinces have started regulating passenger vans and motorcycle taxi services, in line with the policy of the National Council for Peace and Order, amid support from local people.
In Uthai Thani, the provincial military and Land Transport Department officials inspected the van and taxi hub after rogue operators have been moved out. The authorities have also provided additional vehicles to the van fleet to match the local demand, performed vehicle check-ups, stepped up safety measures, and conducted alcohol checking on drivers.
Meanwhile in Kalasin, military and transport officials have inspected the provincial bus terminal, and reiterated to the van operators to price their service fairly and to clearly display the table of fares to customers. The military also made sure that the operators are operating freely without mafia’s influence.
In Chachoengsao Province, transport officials called a meeting of about 800 motorcycle taxis operating in the municipal area to inform them that they are now required to officially register their service. Each motorbike station is also obligated to display clearly its service charge.
Similarly in Suphanburi, the province held a ‘Smart Driver’ campaign to promote safe public transportation. Towards that goal, representatives of public transport operators such as passenger vans and motorcycle taxis were called to a meeting during which safety of passengers and fair service charges were reiterated. Elimination of mafia-style influences was also discussed.
