TRAFFIC:

Thousands of extra police assigned to ease holiday road congestion in city

BANGKOK: -- More than 9,000 police have been called up to ensure that the traffic on Bangkok’s roads flows freely over the New Year season, PM’s Office Minister Newin Chidchob said yesterday.

Newin, in charge of easing the traffic in the capital, said the situation should improve over the New Year period because more than 9,000 police from other divisions would temporarily be called to help the 5,800 traffic police.

Each newcomer would get Bt2,000 in extra pay for their service from today until January 15, he said. Police officers’ regular shifts end at 7-8pm, he said, but they would not be allowed to go home until traffic in their areas flowed freely.

--The Nation 2005-12=13

MR. BANCHA AFFIRMED THAT AOT CAN HANDLE AIR AND ROAD TRAFFIC SITUATION DURING NEW YEAR'S FESTIVAL

Acting President of the Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) BANCHA PATTANAPORN (บัญชา ปัตนาภรณ์) assured that the AOT can handle air and road traffic congestions during the approaching New Year’s Festival.

Mr. BANCHA spoke about the AOT’s preparation for the New Year’s Festival, indicating that the AOT is cooperating with traffic agencies such as the Airport Traffic Organization and the Don Muang Police Station. The agencies would be able to provide convenience to commuters who plan to travel around the Don Muang Airport.

He also affirmed that there will no problems in air traffic. Moreover, he has coordinated with police, medical teams and related agencies to tighten up the security and prepare themselves to deal with possible accidents during the festival.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 14 December 2005

Increase traffic more like it!

Police officers’ regular shifts end at 7-8pm, he said, but they would not be allowed to go home until traffic in their areas flowed freely.

Wow, that could make for some LOOOOOOONG evenings....

They probably will make things worse.....