Police to Step Road Safety Enforcement During New Years

Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapat, deputy national police chief, said that during the seven dangerous days, officers would be mobilized to ease traffic congestion and monitor road safety.

According to him, over 7.6 million cars are expected to leave and return to Bangkok between Dec 29 and Jan 4, up from six million last year. On Dec 30-31, outbound routes are expected to be congested, and on Jan 3, inbound routes will be congested as well.

Traffic agencies have been ordered to create bypass maps and shortcuts, and clear congested areas by Christmas.

In addition to providing snacks and water, police will provide information on traffic routes.

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He announced that the Highway Police will provide route information and answer calls for help via the Highway Police hotline 119, the Highway Police’s Facebook page, the Traffic Control and Command Centre, and hotline 1197.

From Dec 30-31 and Jan 2-4, trucks with more than 10 wheels will be prohibited from some roads to allow for more traffic flow.

Truck drivers who need to travel during those days can request permission at www.hwpdth.com.

Law enforcement will take action against violators of road safety traffic laws including motorcyclists who ride on the wrong side of the road, drivers who drink and drive, and drivers who run red lights or speed.