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The Cabinet in Thailand has approved a measure to waive toll fees on Motorway 7 and Motorway 9 from December 30 to January 5, aiming to reduce congestion during the New Year holidays. This decision, announced by Deputy Government Spokesperson Aiyarin Phanrit, follows a proposal from the Ministry of Transport to facilitate smoother traffic flow.

 

Specifically, the toll exemption applies to Motorway 7, covering the Bangkok–Pattaya section, and crucial interchanges including National Highway No. 34, the Chon Buri interchange, and the Nong Prue–Ban Chang section. Motorway 9 tolls will also be waived on sections such as Phra Pradaeng–Bang Khae and Bang Pa-in–Bang Phli. These roads are crucial for commuters and holiday travelers, offering strategic connectivity across regions.

 

The initiative is predicted to cause a revenue shortfall of approximately 185.35 million baht. However, officials anticipate compensatory economic benefits of around 280.34 million baht, attributed to decreased travel time and vehicle operating costs. They also foresee a boost in domestic spending and tourism, with an estimated economic circulation of 256 million baht due to the toll savings.

 

Experts suggest that waiving tolls could also address the annual surge in road accidents characteristic of this holiday period. Increased safety awareness and appropriate travel measures are recommended, considering that the risks often spike due to speeding, drunk driving, and low visibility conditions.

 

Looking forward, travelers can expect smoother and more cost-effective journeys during the toll-free period. Authorities hope that the toll waivers will not only reduce congestion but also promote increased economic activity, setting a positive precedence for future holiday traffic management strategies, reported The Thaiger.

 

Key Takeaways

• Motorway tolls waived from December 30 to January 5 to ease holiday traffic.
• Economic benefits from toll exemption expected to outweigh revenue losses.
• Authorities emphasize increased safety measures due to road risks.

 

Related Stories

Government Announces Week-Long Toll -Free on Thai Expressways

Transport Ministry Denies 30-Baht Toll Approval

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-24

 

 

 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

approved a measure to waive toll fees on Motorway 7 and Motorway 9 from December 30 to January 5, aiming to reduce congestion during the New Year holidays

 ....... and hopefully, reduce the incidence of people getting shot by man-children brought up by their grandparents. 😞 

Whatever measures they take:

avoid long distance road travel until the madness is over.