Highways to Switch Off Lights on Quiet Routes

The Department of Highways has announced new energy-saving measures that will see street lighting switched off on some national highways between 22:00 and 06:00, following a notice published in the Royal Gazette. The move forms part of a Transport Ministry policy requiring state agencies to strictly reduce energy consumption, while maintaining road safety standards.

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Under the directive, highway offices across Thailand must assess and identify areas where lighting can be reduced without affecting public safety. The policy mainly applies to national highways with low volumes of traffic during nighttime hours.

Authorities stated that lighting will not be reduced in accident-prone or high-risk locations. These include intersections, dangerous curves, bottlenecks, bridge approaches, U-turn points, blind spots, densely populated communities and areas with a history of frequent crashes.

Officials have also been instructed to ensure that sufficient traffic signs and safety equipment are installed in areas where lighting is reduced. Motorists must receive advance warning before entering affected sections of road and additional signs or safety devices may be added if required.

The Transport Ministry said the measures are intended to reduce electricity consumption across government agencies without compromising the safety of road users. Highway officials retain the authority to immediately restore normal lighting in any area later considered unsafe or at increased risk of accidents.

The Department of Highways has also been ordered to publicise the measures and educate motorists about the changes. Authorities will continuously monitor the impact of the policy on public safety and traffic conditions nationwide.

Road users are expected to see the changes introduced gradually as local highway offices complete safety assessments and determine which sections of road qualify under the new directive. The policy specifically targets quieter highways where reduced lighting is considered unlikely to affect motorists.

Khaosod reported that transport officials said the review process will remain ongoing, with safety conditions reassessed if traffic volumes increase or new risks emerge. Any area found to pose a danger to drivers can have full lighting restored without delay.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 30 May 2026