CHAI NAT, Thailand – As the New Year holiday approaches, people have started to leave Bangkok and return to their hometowns, causing traffic congestion on the Asia Highway passing through Chai Nat Province. The traffic volume has increased to around 1,200-1,300 vehicles per hour, though it remains manageable, with vehicles still able to travel at speeds of 90-100 kilometers per hour.
To prevent accidents, the Chai Nat Highway Department has temporarily closed four U-turn points on the Asia Highway in high-risk areas. The closed U-turn points include: Wat Maprang (km 115+325), Wat Si Mongkol (km 123+500), Kaew Sawang Mill (km 136+300), and Bang Tan Lai (km 141+500). These closures will be in effect from December 26, 2024, to January 3, 2025. Motorists needing to make a U-turn are advised to use the underpass at the next available location instead.
In addition, local authorities have set up a service point at the Utapao rest area along the Asia Highway (km 137+650, Utapao Subdistrict, Manorom District) to provide comfort and safety for travelers. The facility offers free coffee, cold drinks, clean restrooms, and vehicle repair services. At 4:00 PM today, Chai Nat Deputy Governor Wittaya Chapanon will officially open the Road Safety Operation Center for the New Year holiday, ensuring services are available 24 hours a day to assist the public during the busy travel period.
