Thai-Lao Transport Meeting Spurs New Cross-Border Bus Routes

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In a significant development for regional connectivity, the Thai Transport Company Limited announced plans to enhance road transport cooperation between Thailand and Laos. The discussions, conducted on 4th-5th September 2024, aim to streamline travel and introduce new tourism routes linking airports and high-speed rail services.

 

Acting Managing Director Atthawit Rakjamroon revealed these updates this morning, aligning the initiatives with the policy directives of Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. Key updates include reopening all international bus routes and launching new ones to facilitate smoother travel between the two nations.

 

Among the major developments is a new route from Udon Thani to Vang Vieng, expected to start in early November. This route will connect Udon Thani International Airport with the Lao-China high-speed railway, which is currently undergoing upgrades. Furthermore, studies are underway for five additional routes, including:

 

• Chiang Mai to Boten
• Bangkok to Savannakhet
• Pattaya to Pakse
• Pattaya to Vientiane
• Pattaya to Savannakhet

 

These routes aim to provide more comprehensive travel options, enhancing the ease of movement for tourists and commuters alike. Currently, nine international routes operate between Thailand and Laos, servicing around 3,000 passengers daily through 92 trips.

 

 

 

 

Additionally, the Transport Company plans to upgrade the Bangkok-Pakse route with premium services while maintaining the existing frequency of two daily trips. The Mukdahan-Savannakhet route will also see a service increase, adding three more buses to make 17 daily trips.

 

To further support these enhancements, ticket sales will be boosted through online and E-Ticket systems. Staffing at the Nong Khai Immigration checkpoint will be increased to improve passenger processing on the Nong Khai-Vientiane route.

 

Moreover, Transport Company officials have visited the Morning Market Bus Terminal in Vientiane to improve signage and information in both Thai and Lao languages. These efforts are geared towards ensuring better accessibility and a more comfortable travel experience for all passengers.

 

This collaborative initiative marks a significant step towards bolstering regional connectivity and improving travel infrastructure between Thailand and Laos, reported The Pattaya News.

 

Photo: The Pattaya News

 

-- 2024-09-11
 

 

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