Transport Pattaya's Streets: New Rules for Taxis and Apps

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News

 

Pattaya’s chaotic streets are on the verge of change as city police and transport authorities have united to tackle rogue taxis, illegal ride-hailing apps, and persistent traffic jams.

 

On Monday, 18th August, key officials converged at Pattaya City Police Station’s Operations Centre for a decisive meeting on transport reform. The session was co-chaired by Police Lieutenant Colonel Phanuphong Nimsuwan, Traffic Inspector, and Watcharapong Phromchatree, Transport Operations Officer from the Chon Buri Transport Office.

 

Joining them were leaders from Pattaya’s largest transport cooperatives, including Thongchai Sukkhokjai of Pattaya Cooperative Transport, Supachai Phuengprapha of Bo Thong Taxi Cooperative, and Jarun Thongsri of Pattaya Dolphin Taxi Cooperative, along with senior traffic police officers.

 

The primary focus was to address the city’s clogged streets by ensuring all public transport operators, from baht buses and traditional taxis to ride-hailing services, comply with the law.

 

A critical issue highlighted was the rise of unregistered app-based drivers. New regulations, published in the Royal Gazette, mandate that by October, all ride-hailing drivers, whether in cars or on motorbikes, must register as public service vehicles and possess valid public driving licences.

 

“The aim is to reduce traffic congestion, stop illegal services, and restore order to Pattaya’s roads,” emphasised the officials.

 

Following the meeting, joint teams of traffic police and transport authorities launched unexpected roadside inspections at Central Pattaya Beach along Second Road. Officers scrutinised driving licences, vehicle registrations, and cracked down on cars obstructing traffic or parked illegally.

 

The results revealed numerous app-based drivers operating without proper registration as “electronic hire vehicles (R.Y. 18)” or lacking necessary licences. Rather than imposing immediate penalties, officers opted to issue warnings, provide guidance, and urge drivers to register through the Department of Land Transport’s website.

 

Officials are also promoting a shift towards eco-friendly travel. Electric taxis and baht buses, from brands like Toyota, DYD, MG, and AION, were showcased as safer, greener alternatives.

 

Police have emphasised that app-based drivers must comply swiftly or face stricter enforcement once the October deadline hits. Leaders from transport cooperatives also stressed the importance of working together to create a modern, legal, and environmentally conscious transport system for Pattaya.

 

In this push for reform, the city aims not only to ease congestion but also to build a sustainable and orderly transport environment that benefits residents and tourists alike.

 

In an area where traffic problems have long plagued both locals and visitors, these efforts to crack down on rogue operations and promote legal compliance are a welcome initiative. For tourists and locals navigating Pattaya’s vibrant—but often congested—streets, the coming months promise smoother and greener journeys.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-20

 

[ChrisY1]

The family resort??....been in Thailand 25 yrs +....and this place is still a s*** hole!

[Gaccha]

56 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

A critical issue highlighted was the rise of unregistered app-based drivers

 

These App drivers are one of the few pluses in the last 10 years of transport issues. By breaking up the cartel of the taxi mafia they provide a better, more luxurious experience. 

 

If they don't want the App drivers around, then provide incentives of better public transport to their users. This would include severe penalties for fare-hiking, easy complaint procedures and better quality public vehicles.

[pattjock]

How about making the regular taxis using the meter ??

[blaze master]

57 minutes ago, Gaccha said:

By breaking up the cartel of the taxi mafia they provide a better, more luxurious experience. 

 

Challenge the taxi mafia. How dare ye.