More massages for motorists

SINGBURI: -- A petrol station might not seem much of a place of rest for tired motorists, but under a plan announced today by the Department for the Development of Thai and Alternative Medicine (DTAM), stressed drivers up and down the country could soon be queuing up for gas station-based massage services.

The announcement was made as the DTAM, which is working in conjunction with petrol giant Bangchak, opened its 17th motorist massage service at a petrol station in Thailand's central province of Singburi today.

Expressing concern that tired motorists were relying on energy drinks to get them through long drives, the DTAM Director-General, Vichai Chokevivat, said that the best way to beat stress while driving was to stop and relax.

Massage, which Dr. Vichai noted would help boost concentration, is seen by the government as one weapon in its armoury for helping reduce road accidents, particularly during the upcoming long vacations for the traditional Thai New Year festival.

Previous years have seen upwards of 500 people die on Thailand's roads during the week-long vacation period.

The DTAM now plans to introduce massage services at eight more petrol stations, boosting the total number of stations offering the services to 25.

--TNA 2005-04-08

With happy endings?

Does anyone not feel ready for a nap after a relaxing massage??

hair-brained idea #4567678.

Kinda gives a whole new meaning to "special massage."