New speed cameras on the Lamphun-Lampang route sparked a widespread online debate. The cameras, installed along the descent from Doi Khun Tan, feature 8K resolution and enforce speed limits ranging from 50 to 90 kilometres per hour, depending on the specific location.

 

Following a post by the Facebook page This is Lamphun which shared images of the new speed cameras and highlighted the enforced speed limits, the public response was swift and intense.

 

“Driving up and down the mountain is already tricky. Why don’t you have the police drive here and show us how it’s done?”

 

The post has gathered over 2,100 comments, many criticising the government’s approach, with users expressing anger on the snail-like 50-kilometre-an-hour speed limit.

 

The installation of these high-resolution cameras follows an increasing trend in Thailand to enhance road safety through technology.

 

The authorities aim to reduce accidents on this particular stretch of road, known for its challenging terrain and frequent accidents.

 

Difficult roads

 

Many drivers, however, feel that the new measures are overly restrictive. They argue that the speed limits do not account for the practicalities of driving on a mountainous road, where maintaining a constant speed is difficult.

 

This sentiment is echoed in numerous comments questioning the practicality and effectiveness of such stringent speed enforcement.

 

Despite the backlash, some individuals support the initiative, arguing that safety should be the priority. A supporter commented. This perspective highlights the ongoing tension between road safety measures and the perceived inconvenience they may cause.

 

The debate also touches on broader issues of trust in governmental decisions and the balance between regulation and individual freedom. Many critics feel that the government sometimes implements measures without fully considering their impact on daily life.

 

The introduction of these speed cameras is seen by some as another example of such top-down decision-making.

 

In addition to the public debate, there is also a call for more transparency and engagement from the authorities. Residents and frequent travellers on the Lamphun-Lampang route are urging the government to provide clearer explanations and perhaps even consider adjustments based on public feedback, reported Khaosod.

 

Road safety concerns

 

The controversy surrounding the new speed cameras is a reflection of the broader challenges faced in implementing road safety measures in areas with difficult driving conditions.

 

While the intent to reduce accidents is widely acknowledged, the methods and their execution remain points of contention.

 

Balancing safety with practical driving conditions will be key to addressing the concerns raised by critics and supporters of the new speed cameras.

 

Ultimately, the goal remains to ensure that roads are safe for all users while also respecting the practical realities faced by drivers. The ongoing debate highlights the complexities involved in achieving this balance and the importance of open dialogue between the government and the public.

 

By Ryan Turner

Image courtesy of This is Lamphun Facebook page

 

Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-27

 

Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wouldn't be necessary if they only gave driving licenses to those who can drive 😉

Why is this in Isaan news?  Another geographical brain failure?

Why does it spark a debate. You know where the cameras are, then speed where they are not.

A problem is that the speed limits are often not even properly signposted. Also, lane markings are often not properly painted. I automate the remote backup of my dashcam over cellular data and keep the records for at least a year.

 

I don't see why me or my wife should pay erroneous tickets and in the last year I've successfully had two tickets cancelled on video evidence, one for doing 120 in a 90 zone (there were no signs reducing to 90 and I could prove it) and the other for turning right at a junction in a lane intended for going straight (the lane marking clearly indicated I could do both). I use that same junction daily, and I had a chuckle two weeks later when the entire junction was repainted with the correct lane markings. So complaining DOES work.

 

Rules are fine, I'm all for road rules and enforcement, but they must be clearly defined, rational, fair, and properly enforced. Otherwise, they simply don't work. The authorities are clearly struggling with this and I would encourage people to dispute tickets that are obviously wrong.

 

 

 

 

 

 

19 minutes ago, Gottfrid said:

 

1 hour ago, Yorkshire Tea said:

Wouldn't be necessary if they only gave driving licenses to those who can drive 😉

 

so take away approx 80 or so percent of all licenses. i totally agree. 

Looks to me as if they most likely aren't regular speed cameras, the devices appear to be some kind of traffic monitoring system as seen on many major roads around Thailand.

Advanced Traffic Monitoring System: uses multiple cameras to track traffic flow, identify vehicles (including stolen ones), and even monitor for accidents. If near an intersection they may monitor red light jumpers. Thy may capture license plates of vehicles that pass through  check licence  and traffic density.

 

Oddly enough I got a speeding ticket (and photo) near there about 11 years ago - 500 baht.

 

12 hours ago, Yorkshire Tea said:

Wouldn't be necessary if they only gave driving licenses to those who can drive 😉

There are already many driving with no license.

12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

This perspective highlights the ongoing tension between road safety measures and the perceived inconvenience they may cause.

That's the real issue, 

Speed cameras are the only effective way of enforcing speed limits, even if we all hate them.

 

They work 24/7/365 and cannot be bribed or take excuses.

 

But it is essential for authorities to use them responsibly to increase road safety not as revenue generators.

 

In the UK they give advance warning of their locations and paint them yellow, so there are no excuses. Speed limits are clearly marked. But of course they are supplemented by mobile cameras/radar/police patrols in problem areas where no fixed cameras are installed, eg roadworks.