Transport Double-Deckers Banned from Risky Roads After Tragic Crash

[webfact]

File picture from reference only.

 

In a decisive move, double-decker buses have been banned from risky routes following a deadly accident on Highway 304 in Prachin Buri. Thailand's  Ministry of Transport announced this measure after a double-decker bus collided with a lorry, resulting in a fire that tragically claimed seven lives and injured over 40 people.

 

The accident occurred on a steep downhill stretch early Monday morning, raising concerns about the safety of double-deckers on certain roads.

 

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has ordered the Department of Land Transport (DLT) to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash.

 

Initial findings indicate the driver was speeding, unable to decelerate in time, leading to the horrific collision. The crash's impact caused a fire by damaging an electrical wiring area, further compounding the disaster.

 

 

 

In response, Minister Suriya, who also serves as the Deputy Prime Minister, has emphasised safety by mandating strict inspections of double-decker buses.

 

A prohibition has been placed on their use along seven identified routes deemed potentially hazardous. These routes include Chiang Mai-Doi Nang Kaew, Mae Hong Son-Mae Teep, and Pua-Doi Phu Kha National Park, among others. This step aims to prevent similar tragedies and ensure passenger safety.

 

Furthermore, Minister Suriya has instructed coordination with the Department of Highways to enhance road safety through the installation of warning signs and rumble strips at potential accident spots.

 

He has also ordered that all buses undergo mandatory stops at designated checkpoints for inspections to ensure compliance with safety measures.

 

Finally, the DLT is mandated to apply stricter regulations on the registration of new double-decker buses, both for regular and chartered services.

 

This aligns with efforts to bolster the safety of passengers and other road users, ensuring that tragedies like the recent one in Prachin Buri become a thing of the past.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-24

 

 

 

[Olav Seglem]

Roads are not the problem.

Look at driving skills.

Rest/work hours.

Last but most important, vehicle maintenance.

[MalcolmB]

This ban will last about 4 months and be forgotten 

[JoePai]

Ban ALL double deckers - period !

[KhunBENQ]

2 hours ago, JoePai said:

Ban ALL double deckers - period !

Get these monsters off the road.

I remember that they are often built with heavy "ordinary" glass on the upper deck ignoring regulations. Makes them even more shacky, higher center of gravity.

[Ralf001]

Just now, KhunBENQ said:

Get these monsters off the road.

I remember that they are often built with heavy "ordinary" glass on the upper deck ignoring regulations. Makes them even more shacky, higher center of gravity.

 

Is automotive glass lighter?